Pronunciation: [dɹˈa͡ɪnɜːsd] (IPA) 
The word "drynursed" is spelled with a d-r-y-n-u-r-s-e-d, with the stress on the first syllable. It is derived from "dry nurse" which means to take care of an infant without breastfeeding. The prefix "dry-" means without or free from, hence the word "drynursed" means caring for an infant without using breast milk. This term is commonly used in medical settings where mothers may be unable or unwilling to breastfeed their infants.
The term "drynursed" generally refers to an act or process of feeding and caring for an infant or young child that is not one's own or biologically related, typically by a lactating woman. Specifically, it describes the practice in which a woman breastfeeds or nurses a baby that is not her own, either temporarily or on a long-term basis. This can occur due to various circumstances, such as when the biological mother is unable to provide breast milk or when the baby is orphaned.
The act of drynursing involves the woman, known as the drynurse, providing breast milk to the baby through breastfeeding or manual expression. The drynurse may choose to wet-nurse the baby, whereby she directly breastfeeds the child, or pump her breast milk and feed it to the baby through bottles or other means. The intention behind drynursing is to ensure the well-being and sustenance of the infant by providing adequate nutrition, antibodies, and emotional connection that breastfeeding offers.
In some cultures and historical periods, drynursing has been a common solution for babies who are unable to receive their mother's breast milk or need additional care. However, contemporary society often encourages the use of donor breast milk or infant formula as alternatives, with drynursing being less prevalent. Nonetheless, the practice of drynursing continues to exist in some regions or among individuals who prioritize breastfeeding for various reasons, including a desire for optimal nutrition and bonding.
The word "drynursed" is derived from the combination of two words: "dry" and "nurse".
The term "dry" originated from the Old English word "dryge", which means "free from moisture". Over time, it developed a broader meaning of "lacking liquid" or "not wet".
The word "nurse" comes from the Latin word "nutrire", which means "to nourish". It refers to a person who provides care, support, and nourishment to another, particularly in the context of healthcare.
When these two words, "dry" and "nurse", are combined, the term "drynursed" is formed. It describes the act of feeding or caring for an infant without the mother's milk (either due to the mother's unavailability or inability to nurse) by using a method alternative to breastfeeding.
