cradles
|crad-les|
/ˈkreɪ.dəlz/
(cradle)
gentle support
Etymology
'cradle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cradol', from a Germanic source possibly related to Proto-Germanic '*kradulaz' meaning 'little bed' or 'support'.
'cradle' changed from Old English 'cradol' to Middle English 'cradel' and eventually became the modern English word 'cradle'.
Initially, it meant 'a small bed for infants' or 'a support'; over time it retained that sense but also developed figurative meanings such as 'place of origin' and 'to nurture or support'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'cradle': small beds or bassinets for infants.
The nursery had several cradles lined up for the newborns.
Synonyms
Noun 2
plural of 'cradle': devices or supports that hold or secure something (e.g., a camera cradle, a ship's cradle).
The workshop stored several cradles for repairing the pipes.
Synonyms
Noun 3
plural of 'cradle' used metaphorically: places regarded as the origin or birthplace of something (e.g., cradles of civilization).
Many historians study the cradles of ancient civilizations.
Synonyms
Verb 1
third-person singular present of 'cradle': to hold gently and protectively, often while supporting and sometimes rocking.
She cradles the rescued kitten in her sweater.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
third-person singular present of 'cradle': to support or position something carefully in a protective holder or frame.
The technician cradles the instrument in a foam-lined tray.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/15 01:11