babying
/ˈbeɪbiɪŋ/
VERB
1. Treating someone with excessive care or indulgence
The act of treating someone as though they were a baby by giving them excessive attention, protection, affection, or indulgence, often preventing them from becoming independent.
1.1. Overprotective care and pampering
Used when someone gives another person excessive attention, protection, or special treatment, particularly by handling them too gently or shielding them from ordinary difficulties.
Synonyms
- coddling
- pampering
- cosseting
- mollycoddling
- spoiling
- indulging
- cockering
- mothering
- humoring
- nursing
Antonyms
- neglecting
- mistreating
- abusing
- ill-treating
- disciplining
Examples
- Despite being a teenager, she resented her parents for still babying her.
- The young puppy looked up with pleading eyes, hoping for more babying and treats.
- In the cozy nursery, the new parents spent hours babying their newborn with love and care.
Related Words
- overprotection
- indulgence
- permissiveness
- parenting
- caregiving
- dependency
- infantilization
1.2. Excessive attention to objects or projects
Used when someone takes unusually careful or protective attention to an object, possession, or project, often fussing over its condition or details to keep everything perfect.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- neglecting
- mishandling
- mistreating
Examples
- The seasoned chef was known for babying his sauces, ensuring each flavor was perfectly balanced.
- He spends hours babying his vintage car to keep it in excellent condition.
- She kept babying the delicate plants to ensure they survived the winter.
Related Words
- maintenance
- preservation
- meticulousness
- attention
- carefulness
- protection
- devotion
NOUN
2. The act of treating someone like a baby
The act or practice of giving someone excessive affection, attention, protection, or indulgent treatment as though they were an infant.
2.1. Indulgent treatment and excessive care
Refers to the practice of treating someone with unusual tenderness, attention, or leniency, particularly when such treatment encourages dependence or childish behavior.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- neglect
- mistreatment
- abuse
- harshness
- discipline
Examples
- The child had become accustomed to constant babying from his grandparents.
- Too much babying can prevent children from learning to solve problems independently.
- The puppy enjoyed all the babying and attention it received from its owners.
Related Words
- overprotection
- tenderness
- affection
- permissiveness
- solicitude
- parental care
- dependency