Pacifier Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pacifier
[ˈpæsɪˌfaɪər ]
Definitions
for babies
A pacifier is a rubber or plastic object that a baby sucks on to make them stop crying.
Examples of usage
- The baby was crying, so the mother gave him a pacifier.
- She always carries a pacifier in her bag in case the baby gets fussy.
- I forgot to pack the pacifier in the diaper bag.
informal
A pacifier is something that calms or soothes a person, often used figuratively.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pacifier |
Commonly used in American English to refer to a device given to a baby to suck on for comfort and to help them stop crying.
|
| comforter |
More often used to describe a soft object that gives emotional comfort, such as a baby blanket or a stuffed toy. It can also refer to a thick bed cover in British English.
|
Examples of usage
- She found music to be a pacifier for her stress.
- A good book can be a pacifier for a troubled mind.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The modern pacifier was invented in the early 20th century, but similar objects have existed for centuries in various cultures.
- Before pacifiers, parents often used cloth or their own fingers to comfort babies.
- The original name for pacifiers was 'soothers' or 'teething rings' in some regions, reflecting their calming purpose.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have unique names and designs for pacifiers, showing how common this soothing tool is worldwide.
- In some cultures, the use of a pacifier is seen as a sign of love and care from parents, while in others, it's considered unnecessary.
Science
- Research has shown that sucking can help babies regulate their stress levels, leading to improved sleep quality.
- Studies have indicated that using a pacifier during sleep may reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Pop Culture
- Pacifiers have appeared in various movies and TV shows, often used as a symbol of childhood innocence or parental life.
- Some celebrities have been photographed with pacifiers, leading to trends in whimsical designs and custom options.
Psychology
- Psychologists have noted that pacifiers can provide comfort not only physically but also psychologically, helping babies feel secure.
- The transition away from pacifiers can sometimes lead to emotional challenges for children, as they associate them with comfort.
Origin of 'pacifier'
The word 'pacifier' originated in the early 20th century, derived from the verb 'pacify'. The use of pacifiers for babies has been a common practice for centuries, with various materials and shapes used throughout history to soothe infants. In the figurative sense, the term 'pacifier' has been extended to describe objects or actions that provide comfort or relief in stressful situations.
See also: pacification, pacificatory, pacifying.