cradle

• Petit lit pour bébé, souvent à bascule ou sur roulettes, ou lieu où quelque chose a pris naissance ou s'est développé.

A noun referring to a small bed for a baby, often on rockers, or the place where something began or originated.

1. Baby's bedA2formal

   A small bed for a baby, often with rockers.

   berceau

   • The baby slept peacefully in the cradle.
   • She rocked the cradle gently to soothe the infant.
   • The wooden cradle was a family heirloom.

   Synonymesbassinetcotcrib

2. Place of originB2formal

   The place where something began or originated.

   berceau

   • Greece is often called the cradle of democracy.
   • The region is considered the cradle of civilization.
   • This university is a cradle of innovation.

   Synonymesbirthplacebreeding groundfountainheadhomenurseryoriginseedbedsourcewellspring

   Antonymesendgraveresultterminus

3. Supporting structureB2formal

   A framework or support for holding something.

   berceau (support)

   • The mechanic placed the engine in a cradle for repair.
   • The phone rested in a charging cradle on the desk.
   • The ship was held in a cradle during construction.

   Synonymesbasebracketframeframeworkholdermountrackreststandsupport

• Tenir doucement et avec soin quelque chose ou quelqu'un, souvent dans les bras ou contre soi, comme pour protéger ou bercer.

A verb used to indicate the act of holding something gently or protectively, often in one's arms or hands.

1. Hold gentlyB1formal

   To hold something or someone carefully and protectively, often in your arms.

   bercer

   • She cradled the baby in her arms.
   • He cradled the injured bird gently.
   • The mother cradled her child's head as he slept.

   Synonymescarrycuddleembraceholdhugnestleshelter

   Antonymesdrophurlthrow

2. Support or protectB2formal

   To provide a safe or supportive environment for something to develop.

   protéger, envelopper

   • The organization cradled the young artist's talent.
   • The community cradled the startup with resources and mentorship.
   • The university cradled the research project from its early stages.

   Synonymescherishfosterharbornursenurtureprotectsheltersupport

   Antonymesabandonendangerexposeneglect