babied
/ˈbeɪ.biːd/
VERB
1. To treat someone like a baby by giving excessive care and attention
To give someone more care, attention, or protection than necessary, as if they were a young child; often implying overprotection or excessive indulgence.
1.1. Overprotecting or treating someone like a child
Giving someone excessive protection, assistance, or attention instead of allowing them to act independently.
Synonyms
- coddled
- cosseted
- mollycoddled
- overprotected
- mothered
- nursed
- petted
- fussed over
Antonyms
Examples
- Her parents babied her even after she became an independent adult.
- He felt embarrassed because his colleagues treated him as though he needed to be babied.
Related Words
- overindulged
- sheltered
- spoon-fed
- dependent
- infantilized
- protected
- pampered
1.2. Pampering or indulging someone
Treating someone with excessive kindness, comfort, or special attention, often by satisfying their wishes and making life easier for them.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The youngest child was babied by everyone in the family.
- She had been babied throughout her childhood and struggled to handle criticism.
Related Words
VERB
2. To handle or treat something with exceptional care
To operate, handle, or maintain something very carefully in order to avoid damage, wear, or unnecessary strain.
2.1. Handling equipment or machinery carefully
Operating or using an object, vehicle, or piece of equipment with unusual caution and attention to prevent damage or excessive wear.
Synonyms
- nursed
- coddled
- pampered
- cosseted
- fussed over
- handled carefully
- treated gently
Antonyms
- abused
- mistreated
- mishandled
- neglected
- manhandled
Examples
- The owner had babied the vintage car, keeping it in excellent condition for decades.
- He babied the engine during the break-in period to prevent unnecessary wear.
Related Words
- maintained
- preserved
- protected
- safeguarded
- conserved
- handled
- operated