# lactation

/ɫækˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /læktˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lactation
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the process of making and releasing milk from the breasts of a mother to feed her baby.

For teachers: the physiological process of milk production and secretion in the mammary glands of female mammals.

## Examples

- The mother began lactation shortly after giving birth.
- Many mammals have evolved specialized behaviors to ensure their young receive enough milk during the early stages of lactation.
- The transition from pregnancy to lactation involves complex hormonal shifts that prepare the mammary glands for the high-volume secretion required to sustain a growing infant.

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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.