HUMAN BABY Meaning and
Definition
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A human baby refers to an infant born to human parents, typically characterized by their small size, fragility, and dependent nature. A newborn baby is a stage of early development following birth, where an individual transitions from the prenatal state to enter the outside world. This stage is marked by the commencement of various physiological, psychological, and cognitive processes that enable overall growth and development.
At birth, a human baby is typically between 18 to 22 inches long and weighs approximately 5 to 9 pounds, but these measurements may vary. Human babies possess certain physical characteristics unique to their stage of development, such as delicate and soft skin, limited mobility, and underdeveloped senses. They rely heavily on caregivers, usually their parents, for nourishment, protection, and assistance in meeting their basic needs like feeding, hygiene, and safety.
Human babies undergo rapid growth, characterized by significant physiological changes during their first years of life. They progress through numerous developmental milestones, including acquiring basic motor skills, recognizing and responding to stimuli, forming attachments, and beginning to communicate through facial expressions, crying, and eventually babbling.
Understanding and addressing the needs of a human baby is crucial for their optimal development. Adequate nutrition, proper medical care, a nurturing environment, and loving interaction are essential for a baby's physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. As they grow and mature, human babies progress towards becoming toddlers, transitioning from complete dependence to increased independence and exploration of the world around them.
Etymology of HUMAN BABY
The word "human baby" does not have a standalone etymology as it is a combination of two separate words.
The word "human" traces its origins back to the Latin word "humanus", which came from "homo" meaning "man" or "human being". "Humanus" referred to the qualities or characteristics that belong to or are typical of human beings.
The word "baby" originally comes from the Middle English word "babi", which was a term used to refer to an infant or a very young child. The word likely derived from an earlier root word that imitated the sound made by infants, such as "ba" or "be".
Therefore, the term "human baby" is simply a combination of these two words, with "human" denoting the species and "baby" referring to a very young child.
