Word
teething
US/ˈtiðɪŋ/
UK/tˈiːðɪŋ/
Definition
n. the time when a baby's first teeth start to grow through the gums. It can cause a baby to feel uncomfortable or cry more than usual.
n. the process of a baby's primary teeth erupting through the gums. Often used to describe the period of discomfort or irritability associated with this physiological development.
Examples
“The baby is teething and has a very sore mouth.”
“During the first few months of teething, many parents find that their infants sleep less and are more easily distracted.”
“The pediatrician explained that teething is a natural developmental milestone, though the associated symptoms can be managed with cold teething rings and gentle gum massage.”
Examples
simple
“The baby is teething and has a very sore mouth.”
contextual
“During the first few months of teething, many parents find that their infants sleep less and are more easily distracted.”
complex
“The pediatrician explained that teething is a natural developmental milestone, though the associated symptoms can be managed with cold teething rings and gentle gum massage.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “teething” in context.
Etymology
From teethe + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Idioms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/teething