Synonyms for

Cradle

Verb / ˈkreɪdʌl / Another word for cradle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a small bed for a baby, especially one that moves from side to side

Synonyms & similar words

birthplace provenience placeoforigin rocker provenance bassinet cot crib manger basket bed hammock shaker swing

Synonyms by register

Formal

nurture foster support cherish

Informal

rock hold care for look after

Literary

bosom womb haven

Antonyms

destroy harm neglect abandon endanger jeopardize

Common collocations

  • rock the cradle
  • cradle of civilization
  • in its cradle
  • cradle to grave
  • cradle of humanity
  • cradle of life
  • cradle of democracy

Word family

noun cradle
verb cradle

Usage note

As a verb, 'cradle' often implies a gentle, protective holding. It can also refer to the origin or birthplace of something significant, as in 'the cradle of civilization'.

Example sentences

  1. The baby's cradle was passed down from his great-grandmother.
  2. My mom used to sing me lullabies while rocking my cradle.
  3. The cradle was gently swaying from side to side.
  4. He placed the newborn in the cradle and covered her with a soft blanket.
  5. The cradle was made of sturdy oak wood and had intricate carvings.

Quotes

  • The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world. - William Ross Wallace
  • What good mothers and fathers instinctively feel like doing for their babies is usually best after all. - Benjamin Spock
  • Every baby born into the world is a finer one than the last. - Charles Dickens

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