cradle
Pronunciation:
/ˈkɹeɪdəl/noun
Definitions
A bed or cot for a baby, oscillating on rockers or swinging on pivots.
The place of origin, or in which anything is nurtured or protected in the earlier period of existence.
Example: a cradle of crime
Infancy, or very early life.
Example: from the cradle to the grave
An implement consisting of a broad scythe for cutting grain, with a set of long fingers parallel to the scythe, designed to receive the grain, and to lay it evenly in a swath.
verb
Definitions
To contain in or as if in a cradle.
To rock (a baby to sleep).
To wrap protectively, to hold gently and protectively.
Example: cradling the injured man’s head in her arms
To lull or quieten, as if by rocking.