toddler

noun

tod·​dler ˈtä-dᵊl-ər How to pronounce toddler (audio)
ˈtäd-lər
plural toddlers
: a person who toddles
especially : a young child usually between one and three years old
It's no secret that kids need plenty of sleep. For a preschooler (3 to 5 years old), that's as much as 11 to 13 hours, including naps; for a toddler (1 to 3), 12 to 14 hours; for a baby under 1, 14 to 15 hours. Stacey Colino
toddlerhood noun

Examples of toddler in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Chelsea shared on her Instagram Stories that the toddler had developed transient synovitis from a viral infection. Emily Blackwood, PEOPLE, 26 Oct. 2025 For the past two years, toddlers at Bernard Jackson’s swim and wellness center in Washington, DC, have learned to float for the first time, and seniors in their eighties have practiced gentle exercises to stay strong. Bryan Mena, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2025 The father charged in suspicion of murder in his toddler's 2024 hot car death has taken a plea deal with Pima County prosecutors that includes a higher sentencing than in a previous plea offer. Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 23 Oct. 2025 Finisterre Stormbird Waterproof Jacket One hiker’s long trek is another’s short jaunt, especially for the Swiss, who are known to set out on the trail as toddlers. Anna Fiorentino, Travel + Leisure, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for toddler

Word History

First Known Use

1815, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of toddler was in 1815

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Cite this Entry

“Toddler.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/toddler. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

toddler

noun
tod·​dler ˈtäd-lər How to pronounce toddler (audio)
-ᵊl-ər
: a young child
toddlerhood noun

More from Merriam-Webster on toddler

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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