cradle

Definition

A bed or cot for a baby, oscillating on rockers or swinging on pivots.

Etymology

From Middle English cradel, credel, from Old English cradol, from Proto-West Germanic *kradul, from Proto-Germanic *kradulaz, from Proto-Germanic *kradô (“(wicker) basket”). Related to cart.

Example Sentences

• "No sooner was I crept out of my cradle / But I was made a king, at nine months old."
• "the cradle that received thee at thy birth"
• "Hush-a-by, baby, upon the tree-top; / When the wind blows the cradle will rock; / When the bough breaks the cradle will fall; / Down will come cradle and baby and all."

Related Words