cradle

• 名词，指婴儿用的小床，常带摇架可摇动；也比喻某事物发源或萌芽的地方。

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.

   摇篮

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

   同义词bassinetcotcrib

2. Place of originB2formal

   The place where something began or originated.

   摇篮

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

   同义词birthplacebreeding groundfountainheadhomenurseryoriginseedbedsourcewellspring

   反义词endgraveresultterminus

3. Supporting structureB2formal

   A framework or support for holding something.

   支撑结构

   • 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.

   同义词basebracketframeframeworkholdermountrackreststandsupport

• 动词，指轻柔或保护性地抱住、托住某物，常指抱在怀里或用手臂托着；也可指像摇篮一样轻轻摇晃。

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.

   轻抱

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

   同义词carrycuddleembraceholdhugnestleshelter

   反义词drophurlthrow

2. Support or protectB2formal

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

   扶持或保护

   • 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.

   同义词cherishfosterharbornursenurtureprotectsheltersupport

   反义词abandonendangerexposeneglect