Phrase guide

rob the cradle

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To marry or become romantically involved with a much younger person, especially one from a younger generation.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: disapproving, idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To use a young person for a purpose inappropriate to their age.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: disapproving, idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.