noun / verb

cradle

KRAY-duhl/ˈkreɪdl/

A small supporting bed for an infant.

The wooden cradle has high slatted sides and curved rocking runners.

A small wooden baby cradle with high slatted sides, a fitted mattress, and clearly visible curved rocking runners, shown alone in three-quarter view.
Etymology

Old English cradol meant a little bed or cot. The modern meaning is more specific: a baby's bed, typically arranged so it can be rocked or swung.

In context

SOBBS Stories of Babies Born Still2:58
the family together allowing a lot of family whoever to visit and the baby can stay right here in the room with the parents with the family in a cradle that keeps the baby cool
Cuddle Cot - the Gift of Time

More examples

  • The baby sleeps in a cradle beside our bed.
  • The twins sleep in separate cradles.
  • She cradles the newborn gently in her arms.

Forms

cradle · cradles · cradled · cradling

Similar words

bassinet
A small infant bed that usually stays still rather than rocking.
crib
A larger bed with high sides, used beyond early infancy.