# breastfeeding

/ˈbɹɛstfidɪŋ/ (US) · /bɹˈɛstfiːdɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/breastfeeding
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. the general practice

noun · CEFR B2

the act of feeding a baby milk from a mother's breast.

For teachers: the practice of nourishing an infant with human milk from the breast. Uncountable in this general sense.

- The doctor discussed the health benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and the baby.
- Public health initiatives often emphasize breastfeeding as a primary means of improving infant immunity and long-term developmental outcomes.

### 2. a single session

noun · CEFR B2

one specific time when a baby is fed from the breast.

For teachers: an individual instance or session of feeding an infant at the breast. Countable in this context.

- The baby fell asleep immediately after a long breastfeeding.
- The midwife suggested keeping a log of each breastfeeding to ensure the newborn was receiving adequate nutrition throughout the day.

## Examples

- She prefers breastfeeding over using formula.
- Many hospitals now encourage immediate breastfeeding after birth to help with bonding.
- Public health campaigns emphasize the nutritional and immunological benefits of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.