baby
noun (countable)
UK/ˈbeɪ.bi/US/ˈbeɪ.bi/
a very young child, especially one who has not yet begun to walk or talk
Example Sentences
The baby slept peacefully in the crib.
She’s expecting a baby next spring, so they’re busy preparing the nursery.
He gently picked up the baby, careful not to wake her.
Babies need constant attention, especially in their first few months of life.
The baby giggled with delight when the puppy ran around the room.
Having a baby changes one’s perspective on life, highlighting new responsibilities and creating deeper emotional connections within the family.
Parents often worry about every small detail when caring for their first baby, from feeding schedules to choosing the right stroller.
That adorable baby in the stroller was smiling at everyone who passed by.
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verb (transitive)
UK/ˈbeɪ.bi/US/ˈbeɪ.bi/
to treat someone with excessive care or attention as if they were a baby
Example Sentences
You shouldn’t baby him so much; he can solve problems on his own.
Sometimes grandparents tend to baby their grandchildren, buying them too many gifts.
There’s a fine line between supporting someone and babying them.
Her manager tends to baby the new hires, making their transition easier.
If you baby the puppy too much, it may never learn to follow commands properly.
He had been babied all his life, which made living alone at college a challenging transition.
Stop babying me—I can take care of my own responsibilities without constant reminders.
When you baby employees, it can undermine their confidence in their own abilities.
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How to Use
A newborn or very young human, or a term expressing affection or vulnerability.“Baby” most commonly refers to an infant, typically from birth through the earliest stages of life before toddlerhood. Physically, babies rely on caregivers for nourishment, mobility, and protection—unable to speak or perform most tasks independently. The word can also appear as a term of endearment among adults—like one partner calling the other “baby,” underscoring fondness or intimacy. In some contexts, people use “my baby” to refer to a beloved pet or cherished project, emphasizing emotional attachment or nurturance. Meanwhile, “baby” in casual speech can convey that something is still in an early, delicate stage, or might be said playfully—e.g., “Don’t baby me,” meaning “Don’t treat me as helpless.”
Alternatives
When describing the earliest stages of human life, words like “infant” or “newborn” can be more specific. “Toddler” applies once they start walking and exploring more actively. Meanwhile, “babe” is an older or more poetic variant. As an affectionate term, synonyms might include “sweetheart,” “darling,” or “honey,” depending on the relationship and cultural norms. Each alternative suits a different level of formality and style: “baby” is widely recognized, flexible, and conveys both actual infancy or a warm emotional tone.
Writing
In formal or academic writing, use “infant” or “neonate” if referencing neonatal development, healthcare, or demographics—like “infant mortality rates” or “neonatal care units.” If you’re describing a family scenario, “baby” is fine, though specifying the child’s exact age or developmental phase can give readers more precise context. In narratives, you might emphasize the vulnerability or cuteness of a baby—focusing on sounds, gestures, or the strong emotional responses they evoke from adults. When discussing endearment in relationships, indicate the dynamic: “She called him ‘baby’ to convey closeness,” or “The character used ‘baby’ ironically, hinting at playful sarcasm.” Adding context about tone or situation helps readers interpret the nuance behind the word “baby.”
Casual Conversation
In everyday talk, “baby” frequently references young children—“She’s got a new baby,” or “He’s babysitting his baby niece.” As a term of endearment, “Hey, baby” might appear in affectionate text messages or spoken lovingly between partners. Friends might also lightly call each other “baby” for fun, though this can be cultural or style-driven. You’ll hear it in phrases like “Don’t be a baby,” meaning “Don’t act overly sensitive.” People might say, “She’s babying him,” if someone is overindulging or treating another as if they’re fragile. In short, “baby” weaves effortlessly into daily references about children, sweet nicknames, or softer emotional contexts.
Etymology
“Baby” originates from Middle English “babe” or “babie,” likely tied to repetitive sounds made by infants themselves—many languages have a similar pattern for naming young children. Over centuries, the meaning stayed consistent: referencing early childhood or functioning as an affectionate address. While “babe” persists in older texts or more poetic usage, “baby” remains the most common form, applying to both the literal sense of a newborn child and figurative expressions of endearment or gentle care.