Definition

Referring to a young child or animal that has not yet stopped nursing from its mother.

Example

The sucking baby cried for milk.

Conversation

Have you seen that new puppy next door?

Yeah, it’s so cute and still sucking on its mother's paw!

I know, it’s so small and sucking like it’s not ready to leave yet.

For sure! It’s so adorable watching it learn everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sucking → It originates from the Old English 'sūcan' (meaning to draw in or pull), which is related to the act of drawing in a substance, typically through the mouth. The word 'sucking' describes the action of drawing in liquid or air.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'sūcan' which means to 'draw in' — this helps you remember that 'sucking' is the action of drawing something in, like liquid.

Visually Confused Words