cradle

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. the place where something important first began or was developed.

n. the place of origin or the environment in which something is nurtured during its early existence.

“Ancient Mesopotamia is often called the cradle of civilization.”

“Historians often debate which specific valley served as the true cradle of the agricultural revolution.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Technology

n. a frame or stand used to hold a piece of equipment, like a phone or a tool.

n. a supporting framework or rest designed to hold a specific object, such as a telephone receiver or a technical instrument.

“Make sure the phone is sitting correctly in its charging cradle.”

“The technician placed the handheld scanner back into its cradle to synchronize the data with the central server.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to hold something or someone very carefully and protectively in your arms.

v. to hold or support something protectively, typically by nesting it within the crook of the arm or in both hands.

“She cradled the injured bird in her hands until they reached the vet.”

“He cradled the fragile manuscript with both hands, terrified that the brittle pages might crumble at the slightest pressure.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to move a baby or an object gently from side to side.

v. to rock or move something in a manner resembling the motion of a cradle, often to soothe or stabilize.

“The mother cradled her child to sleep after the long journey.”

“The gentle motion of the boat cradled the tired passengers into a light sleep as they crossed the calm bay.”