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Word

infant

noun C1
/ˈɪn.fənt/

An infant is a very young child, especially a baby.

infant: An infant is a very young child, especially a baby.

Meanings

noun

a very young child; a baby

noun

a child at the earliest stage of development (used in formal or official contexts)

infant: a child at the earliest stage of development (used in formal or official contexts)

Definition

An infant is a child in the earliest stage of life, typically a baby who is not yet able to walk or speak clearly. The word is used in everyday speech as well as in more formal contexts like childcare and education. It often emphasizes the child’s very young age and need for close care.

Examples

  • The infant fell asleep almost instantly once the room went quiet.
  • In the photo, her infant is gripping her finger with surprising strength.
  • The museum offers a small lounge where parents can feed an infant in privacy.
  • They chose a stroller designed to support an infant’s head and neck properly.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse infant with child or toddler, but an infant is specifically a very young baby, usually before toddler age.