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Suckling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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suckling

[ˈsʌklɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

baby animal feeding

The act of a baby or young animal feeding on milk from its mother's breast or teat.

Synonyms

feeding, nursing, sucking.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
suckling

Typically used to refer to a young mammal that is still feeding on its mother's milk. It can also imply something or someone in a very early, dependent stage.

  • The lioness was attentive to her suckling cubs.
  • In the old farm, a mother pig tended to her suckling piglets.
nursing

Primarily used to describe the act of breastfeeding a baby or caring for an infant. It can also refer to providing medical care, often in a professional capacity.

  • The mother was nursing her newborn quietly in the corner.
  • She decided to pursue a career in nursing to help others.
feeding

Used in a broader sense to describe the act of giving or receiving food, regardless of the method. This term can apply to both humans and animals and does not particularly specify milk feeding.

  • She is busy feeding her baby with a bottle.
  • The zoo keeper is responsible for feeding the animals every morning.
sucking

Refers to the act of drawing in liquid or air through the mouth. This can have both neutral and negative connotations depending on the context.

  • The baby was sucking on a pacifier.
  • He was caught sucking his thumb during the movie.

Examples of usage

  • The suckling of a newborn calf is essential for its growth and development.
  • The mother cat patiently allows her kittens to suckle until they are full.
Context #2 | Noun

breastfeeding

The act of a human baby feeding on milk from its mother's breast.

Synonyms

feeding, nursing, sucking.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
suckling

Repeated for clarification; see above.
nursing

Primarily used to describe breastfeeding in humans or taking care of someone who is ill.

  • She is nursing her newborn.
  • Nurses are essential for nursing patients back to health.
feeding

Used in general contexts to describe the act of providing food or nourishment.

  • The mother is feeding her baby.
  • Feeding the animals at the zoo is a popular activity.
sucking

Describes the action of drawing liquid into the mouth by creating pressure; also can have negative slang meanings.

  • The baby is sucking on a pacifier.
  • He was sucking the juice out of the straw.
  • This movie really sucks.

Examples of usage

  • Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies to the suckling infant.
  • The World Health Organization recommends exclusive suckling for the first six months of a baby's life.
Context #3 | Noun

sensual pleasure

The act of kissing, touching, or caressing with tenderness and affection.

Synonyms

caressing, cuddling, embracing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
suckling

Typically refers to a baby or young animal feeding from its mother's breast or udder. Mostly used in biological or parenting discussions.

  • The mother was gently suckling her infant.
  • The farmer observed the suckling piglets in the pen.
caressing

Implying a gentle and loving touch, often in a romantic or affectionate context. Can be used between lovers or when showing tenderness to someone.

  • He was caressing her cheek softly.
  • The cat purred as she caressed its fur.
cuddling

Describes holding someone close in one's arms to show affection, warmth, or comfort. Commonly used with family, pets, or romantic partners.

  • They were cuddling on the sofa while watching a movie.
  • The child loved cuddling with her teddy bear.
embracing

Refers to hugging someone closely, but can also mean accepting or adopting an idea or change. Suitable for both physical affection and metaphorical acceptance.

  • The long-lost friends were embracing at the airport.
  • She has been embracing new technologies at work.

Examples of usage

  • Their intimate moments were filled with suckling and whispers of love.
  • She found comfort in the gentle suckling of her partner's lips.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Suckling is a vital phase for many mammals, providing necessary nutrients for rapid growth.
  • Certain animals, like deer and elephants, have distinct suckling positions to help their young feed comfortably.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the act of suckling symbolizes the bond between mother and child, emphasizing nurturing.
  • Art and literature often depict suckling, representing innocence and the cycle of life.

Psychology

  • The suckling instinct is crucial for survival, fostering attachment and trust between the mother and her young.
  • Research shows that suckling can influence the emotional development of the offspring, establishing a secure base.

Animal Behavior

  • Many suckling behaviors are instinctive, with new-borns often able to find their mother's nipple soon after birth.
  • Some species, like kangaroos, have unique suckling behaviors, with the young remaining in the pouch while feeding.

Origin of 'suckling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'suckling' comes from the Old English 'sucol', which means to suck.
  • Historically, the term was used not just for animals but also for human infants who rely on breastfeeding.

The word 'suckling' originated from the Middle English word 'sukling', which is derived from the Old English 'sucolung', meaning 'suckling, nursing infant'. The term has been used since the 14th century to refer to the act of a baby or young animal feeding on milk. Over time, the word has also come to be associated with breastfeeding and sensual pleasure.

See also: suck, sucker, sucking, suckle.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,658, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.