Pronunciation: [ˈɪnfənt] (IPA) 
The word "infant" is spelled with the /ɪn/ sound followed by /f/ and then /ənt/. The first syllable starts with the short "i" sound as in "it", while the second syllable has a schwa sound. The final syllable ends with the nasal "n" sound. This word refers to a very young child who has not yet learned to speak or walk. Correct spelling is important because it helps to communicate clearly and accurately in written communication.
Infant (noun): An infant is a term used to describe a very young child, typically one who is under the age of one year old. It refers to the earliest stage of human development after birth. During this period, an infant is characterized by their great dependency on adults for their basic needs, care, and protection. Infants are usually unable to walk, talk, or communicate effectively, and rely on crying or non-verbal cues to express their needs and emotions.
The term "infant" is often used interchangeably with "baby" or "newborn" but is often considered to specifically emphasize the early stages of life following birth. Infancy is a critical phase during which infants develop physically, cognitively, socially, and emotionally. Their growth and development are significant, marked by milestones such as learning to crawl, walk, and speak.
Infants require special care and attention, including regular feeding, diaper changing, bathing, and adequate sleep. Health and safety are crucial considerations in order to ensure their well-being. Research indicates that early experiences and interactions during infancy play a vital role in shaping a child's lifelong development.
In summary, an infant refers to a young child in the earliest stage of life after birth, who is highly dependent on adults for their care, and undergoes rapid growth and development in various domains.
1. A child during the first two years of life, a babe. 2. In law, a minor, a person under twenty-one years of age.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• A babe; a child; in law, a person under 21 years.
• Tender; young; immature.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "infant" originates from the Latin word "infans", which is derived from the combination of the prefix "in-" (meaning "not") and "fari" (meaning "to speak"). Therefore, "infans" literally means "unable to speak". The term was used to describe a child in its early stages of life before they acquire the ability to speak. The word then evolved in Middle English to become "infant" with the same meaning.
