Pacifier: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

comforter, soother.

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. She always keeps a pacifier in her bag in case the baby gets fussy. The baby won't sleep without his pacifier.
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. The baby clings to her comforter whenever she's scared. He bought a new comforter set for the winter.

Examples of usage

• She found music to be a pacifier for her stress.

• A good book can be a pacifier for a troubled mind.