infant - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
infant Word Meanings
- a very young child
- a baby
- a child not yet able to walk or talk
infant Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
infant Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɪnfənt/
US
/ˈɪnfənt/
infant Word Etymology
infant = in- (not) + fant (speaking, from 'fans') → Latin 'infans' meaning 'unable to speak'. Once used to describe children, it reminds us of a baby quietly observing their new world, unable to speak yet.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lift an infant into my arms, feeling the tiny weight settle as I bend to cradle them close. With a careful shift of my grip, I support the head and let the rhythm of their breathing guide me. I hold still for a moment, then slowly adjust, sensing how a small change in angle changes the balance. Through this simple, quiet routine, the word infant begins to feel like more than a label—it's a living being you watch, respond to, and protect.
Real Context
Infant refers to a very young child, typically someone who cannot yet walk or talk. It is more formal and often found in medical, legal, or academic contexts, as in infant mortality, infant formula, or infant care. In everyday speech, people usually say baby. Some learners confuse infant with newborn or with toddler, and may over-generalize the term to older children. In British English, infant can also appear in school classifications. Choosing the right word depends on register: infant is neutral/formal, baby is casual, and toddler sits between infant and child. Knowing these nuances helps learners sound appropriate and precise.
Usage Reminders
- Infant is a noun; can be used in compounds as an adjective (infant mortality, infant formula).
- In everyday speech, 'baby' is more natural.
- Distinguish infant from newborn and toddler; use toddler for a child who is walking.
- Infant can appear in formal contexts (clinical reports, law, academia).
- Do not use infant to refer to adults or in casual slang.
Common Misconceptions
- Infant = newborn; infants are only babies who are newborn.
- Infant is a direct synonym of baby in all contexts.
- Using infant in casual speech sounds natural and normal.
- Infant is used for adults in jokes or medical sarcasm.
- Infant always refers to a child who cannot walk or speak.
Thinking Differences
Infant is formal and clinical-sounding; most English speakers would use 'baby' in everyday speech. Learners should note the register and reserve 'infant' for medical, legal, or literary contexts to avoid sounding stilted.
Learning Tips
- Remember infant is formal; reserve it for medical/legal/academic contexts.
- Compare with newborn and toddler to build nuance.
- Use 'baby' in casual speech and 'toddler' for a walking child.
- Learn common collocations like infant mortality or infant formula.
- Avoid using infant to refer to adults.
- Practice choosing the register in context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'infant' correctly?
A.The infant drove the car to work.
B.The infant was asleep in the crib.
C.The infant cooked dinner for the family.
D.The infant repaired the broken TV.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'infant'?
A.Elderly
B.Toddler
C.Teenager
D.Adult
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'infant'?
A.Old
B.Middle-aged
C.Young adult
D.Adolescent
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving a young child?
A.The student giving a presentation in class.
B.The doctor performing surgery.
C.The parent changing the infant's diaper.
D.The pilot flying the airplane.
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