Word: Suckle
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To "suckle" means to feed a baby (usually a mammal) with milk from the mother's breasts. It can also mean to provide milk to a baby as a wet nurse would.
Usage Instructions: You can use "suckle" when talking about how a baby gets milk to eat. It is often used in the context of animals but can also refer to humans.
Example Sentences: 1. The mother animal gently allowed her cubs to suckle. 2. The infant was suckling happily, enjoying the warm milk. 3. In some cultures, it is common for mothers to suckle their babies until they are older.
Advanced Usage: "Suckle" can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is dependent on another for nourishment or support. For example, "The young artist felt she had to suckle from the experience of her mentor."
Word Variants: - Suckling (noun): A young child or animal that is still being fed milk, usually from its mother. - Example: The suckling was safe in its mother’s arms. - Suckled (past tense): This form is used to describe the action that has already happened. - Example: The mother suckled her baby for many months.
Different Meanings: - The primary meaning relates to feeding with milk. - In a broader sense, it can imply a nurturing relationship or dependence on someone for care or support.
Synonyms: - Nurse - Feed - Lactate (more technical) - Nourish (in a broader sense)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include the word "suckle," but you might hear phrases that involve "nurse" or "nurture," which convey a similar meaning of caring for someone or something.
Conclusion: "Suckle" is a simple yet important word used to describe the process of feeding a baby with milk. It's a key concept in understanding how young animals and children receive nourishment from their mothers.