Pronunciation: /ˈkreɪdəl/

Definitions of cradle

noun a small bed for an infant, often on rockers

Example Sentences

A1 The baby slept peacefully in the cradle.

A2 She gently rocked the cradle to soothe the crying infant.

B1 The wooden cradle was passed down through generations in the family.

B2 The antique cradle was beautifully carved and adorned with intricate designs.

C1 The cradle swayed back and forth in the moonlit room, casting a soothing spell.

C2 The cradle symbolized the beginning of life and the innocence of infancy in the artist's painting.

verb to hold gently and protectively

Example Sentences

A1 The mother cradled her baby in her arms.

A2 She cradled the injured bird gently in her hands.

B1 The old man cradled the precious family heirloom with care.

B2 The artist cradled the delicate sculpture as he moved it into place.

C1 The nurse cradled the newborn baby, ensuring its safety and comfort.

C2 The archaeologist cradled the ancient artifact in his hands, marveling at its craftsmanship.

Examples of cradle in a Sentence

formal The baby was gently rocked in the cradle as she fell asleep.

informal I found an old cradle at the flea market for my baby niece.

slang Let's hit the hay in the cradle tonight, it's so comfy.

figurative The small town is often referred to as the cradle of civilization in this region.

Grammatical Forms of cradle

past tense

cradled

plural

cradles

comparative

more cradled

superlative

most cradled

present tense

cradles

future tense

will cradle

perfect tense

have cradled

continuous tense

is cradling

singular

cradle

positive degree

cradle

infinitive

to cradle

gerund

cradling

participle

cradling

Origin and Evolution of cradle

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old English
Story behind the word: The word 'cradle' originated from the Old English word 'cradol' which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'kradolaz'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to a small bed for a baby to sleep in, the word 'cradle' has evolved to also represent a framework or support used to hold or protect something.