Neonate: meaning, definitions and examples

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neonate

[ˈniːəneɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

newborn baby

A neonate is a newborn baby, typically up to 4 weeks old. Neonates require special care and attention as they adjust to life outside the womb.

Synonyms

baby, infant, newborn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
neonate	This word is used in medical contexts to specifically refer to a newborn baby, typically within the first month of life. The neonate was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) Neonate screening tests are conducted soon after birth
newborn	This term is commonly used to describe a baby who has just been born, typically within the first few weeks of life. It can be used in both formal and informal settings. The proud parents showed off their adorable newborn Newborn care can be challenging for first-time parents
infant	This term is slightly more formal and is often used in medical or technical contexts to refer to a young child typically from birth to about one year old. The doctor examined the infant carefully Infant care is crucial for healthy development
baby	This word is most commonly used in everyday language to refer to a very young child, typically from birth to around 2 years old. It is a versatile term that can be used in formal and informal contexts. She has a new baby at home The baby is sleeping

Examples of usage

The hospital has a neonatal unit dedicated to caring for neonates.
The neonate was sleeping peacefully in the crib.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

animal newly born

In the animal kingdom, a neonate refers to a baby animal that has just been born. Neonates often rely on their parents for protection and nourishment.

Synonyms

baby animal, youngling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
neonate	Typically used in medical or scientific contexts to refer to a newborn human, particularly within the first few weeks of life. The neonate was carefully monitored in the neonatal intensive care unit. Neonates require special care and attention during their early weeks.
baby animal	Used to describe the young offspring of animals, especially in a more casual or endearing way. The baby animal was snuggling next to its mother. Children were excited to see the baby animals at the farm.
youngling	An informal or literary term to describe a young child or animal, often used to evoke a sense of innocence or endearment. The younglings played happily in the garden. She took care of the younglings with great tenderness.

Word

Description / Examples

neonate

Typically used in medical or scientific contexts to refer to a newborn human, particularly within the first few weeks of life.

The neonate was carefully monitored in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Neonates require special care and attention during their early weeks.

baby animal

Used to describe the young offspring of animals, especially in a more casual or endearing way.

The baby animal was snuggling next to its mother.
Children were excited to see the baby animals at the farm.

youngling

An informal or literary term to describe a young child or animal, often used to evoke a sense of innocence or endearment.

The younglings played happily in the garden.
She took care of the younglings with great tenderness.

Examples of usage

The neonates huddled together for warmth.
The zoo celebrated the arrival of a new neonate giraffe.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'neonate' comes from the Latin 'neo' meaning 'new' and 'natus' meaning 'born'.
It first appeared in medical texts in the early 20th century as healthcare began to focus more on newborn care.

Science

Neonates have different needs compared to older babies, as their bodies are still adjusting to life outside the womb.
Their immune systems are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections, which is why special care is essential.

Psychology

Research shows that the bond between a neonate and its parents significantly affects emotional and cognitive development.
Neonates are capable of recognizing their mother's voice shortly after birth, highlighting the importance of early attachment.

Pop Culture

In movies and literature, the theme of new beginnings is often represented by the birth of a neonate, symbolizing hope and the future.
Various music artists have written songs about parenthood and the joy of welcoming a neonate into the family.

Healthcare

Neonatal care is a specialized area of medicine focused on the care of infants who are born prematurely or with health issues.
Health professionals monitor neonates for critical conditions like jaundice and respiratory distress immediately after birth.

Translations

Translations of the word "neonate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 neonato

🇮🇳 नवजात शिशु

🇩🇪 Neugeborenes

🇮🇩 bayi baru lahir

🇺🇦 новонароджений

🇵🇱 noworodek

🇯🇵 新生児

🇫🇷 nouveau-né

🇪🇸 neonato

🇹🇷 yenidoğan

🇰🇷 신생아

🇸🇦 مولود جديد

🇨🇿 novorozenec

🇸🇰 novorodenec

🇨🇳 新生儿

🇸🇮 novorojenček

🇮🇸 nýfætt barn

🇰🇿 жаңа туған нәресте

🇬🇪 ახალშობილი

🇦🇿 yenidoğulmuş

🇲🇽 neonato

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,237, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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23234 lumpy
23235 vitriol
23236 assuage
23237 neonate
23238 dozed
23239 factoring
23240 scalding
...