Definition

The process of a child or animal stopping the dependence on its mother for food.

Example

Weaning can be a challenging time for both the baby and the mother.

Conversation

I heard that weaning can be a tough process for both the baby and the parents.

Yeah, it definitely can be challenging, especially if the baby is really attached.

I can imagine! It must take a lot of patience during the weaning phase.

For sure, but it's also a big step towards independence.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To gradually stop feeding a baby or young animal with its mother's milk and start giving it solid food instead.

Example

The mother began weaning her baby at six months old.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard you’re weaning your baby off the bottle now.

Yeah, it’s a bit challenging, but we’re trying our best.

I can imagine! How has it been going so far?

Root Explanation

Weaning comes from the Old English 'wenian' (meaning to accustom or to train) and the suffix '-ing' (indicating the action or process of). The word 'weaning' refers to the process of gradually accustoming a child or animal to stop nursing or being dependent on a source of nourishment.

Memory Tip

Think of the process of 'accustoming' ('wenian') someone to stop relying on something, which is what weaning means.

Visually Confused Words