weaning
weaning
NounAdjective
This term describes a transition of dependency, moving from a state of total reliance on a source to a state of independence or alternative sustenance. In biological contexts, it carries a nurturing yet firm connotation of growth and maturation, marking the end of infancy.
When applied to medicine or psychology, the word shifts toward a clinical tone, emphasizing the cautious, incremental nature of the process. It implies a strategic reduction to prevent shock or relapse, focusing on the stability of the subject during the withdrawal phase.
Meanings
Nounweaning
The process of gradually introducing a young mammal to food other than its mother's milk.
The kitten is currently weaning and starting to eat solid food.
Related Words
detachmentseparationbreastfeedinglactationinfantbabymothermilkformulanutritiondietgrowthdevelopmentmammalnursingcolostrumpapillabreastbottlepacifierpediatricianparentingchildhoodinfancysupplementpureeporridgecerealdigestionstomachenzymeproteinvitaminmineralcaloriehungersatietyhabitdependencyindependencetransitionphasestageprocesswithdrawalabstinencetaperingreductioncessationdiscontinuationaddictionsobrietyrecoveryrehabilitationdetoxificationdrugmedicationdosagetherapybehaviorpsychologyattachmentbondcaregivernurturematurityadolescencephysiologyhormoneprolactinoxytocinestrogenprogesteronemetabolismabsorptionmasticationsalivagutmicrobiomehealthwellnessweight gain