cradle

¹cra·dle

noun \ˈkrā-d^əl\

Definition of CRADLE

1

a : a bed or cot for a baby usually on rockers or pivots b : a framework or support suggestive of a baby's cradle: as (1) : a framework of bars and rods (2) : the support for a telephone receiver or handset c : an implement with rods like fingers attached to a scythe and used formerly for harvesting grain d : a frame to keep the bedclothes from contact with an injured part of the body

2

a : the earliest period of life : infancy <from the cradle to the grave> b : a place of origin <the cradle of civilization>

3

: a rocking device used in panning for gold

Examples of CRADLE

1. She placed the phone back on its cradle.
2. A number of ships were resting in their cradles in the shipyard.

Origin of CRADLE

Middle English cradel, from Old English cradol; perhaps akin to Old High German kratto basket, Sanskrit grantha knot

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to CRADLE

Synonyms: birthplace, home, mother country, motherland

Related Words: hometown; Blighty [chiefly British], country, nativity, old country, roots

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Other Furniture and Woodworking Terms

appoint, credenza, mission, settee

Rhymes with CRADLE

dreidel, ladle, wedel