toddle

Everyday

1. To toddle is to walk with short, wobbly steps, the way a small child who has just learned to walk does. tree →
2. Informally, to toddle somewhere means to walk or go there slowly and calmly. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and stories it describes babies and little children learning to walk; that is why they are called toddlers. Adults sometimes say «I'll toddle off now» in a joking, friendly way, meaning «I'll go». Phrases: «toddle along», «toddle off», «toddle over to».

Examples

• My baby brother toddled across the kitchen. tree →
• The little girl toddled after the ducks. tree →
• Babies usually start to toddle when they are about one year old. tree →
• Grandpa said he would toddle down to the shop. tree →
• The puppy toddled behind the toddler. tree →
• She toddled into the room holding her teddy. tree →

Note

Regular verb: toddled, toddling. A «toddler» is a child who toddles, usually one to three years old. «Toddle off» is casual and friendly, not rude.