childproof
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈtʃaɪldpruːf/
KK: /ˈtʃaɪldˌpruf/
adjective
Definition
Made safe for young children by preventing access to potentially dangerous items or areas.
Example
The new cabinets are childproof, so the kids can't get into the cleaning supplies.
Conversation
Have you seen the new childproof locks I installed in my kitchen?
Yeah, I noticed them! They look really effective.
I wanted to make sure everything is safe now that my niece is visiting.
That's a smart move; it's always good to have a childproof home.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
safe
secure
protected
Antonyms
dangerous
hazardous
unsafe
transitive verb
Definition
To make something safe for children by removing or securing potential hazards.
Example
They decided to childproof the house before the baby arrived.
Tense Forms
Past: childproofed
Past Participle: childproofed
Conversation
Have you had a chance to childproof your house yet?
Not yet, but I really need to get on that before the baby arrives.
Yeah, I remember how much safer it felt after I childproofed mine.
Root Explanation
Childproof → It is formed from "child" (from Old English "cild", meaning a young human) and "proof" (from Old French "proef", meaning to test or to make secure). The word "childproof" means designed to be safe for children, preventing them from accessing potentially dangerous items.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'child' being kept safe from harm — 'proof' means secure or tested, so 'childproof' means made secure for children.
Visually Confused Words
hailproof
coldproof
acidproof