cradle

Everyday

1. A cradle is a small bed for a baby, often one that can rock. tree →
2. The place where something began: the cradle of civilisation. tree →
3. To cradle something is to hold it gently in your arms. tree →
4. A frame that holds something, like a phone cradle. tree →

In the lessons

Used in lullabies («Rock-a-bye baby… down will come baby, cradle and all»), history (cradle of civilisation), and stories and care: «from the cradle to the grave».

Examples

• The baby slept in a wooden cradle. tree →
• She cradled the kitten in her arms. tree →
• Mesopotamia is called the cradle of civilisation. tree →
• Rock the cradle gently. tree →
• He cradled his sore arm. tree →
• Put the phone back in its cradle. tree →
• “Wendy,” remonstrated Michael, “I’m too big for a cradle.” tree →

Note

Countable. «From the cradle to the grave» = all your life. Similar: crib, cot (UK).