baby-farm

A woman runs a baby-farm in her home.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A place where infants are cared for in exchange for payment: "baby-farm" refers to an establishment where babies are looked after, often historically, in return for money, typically implying a commercial or institutional arrangement rather than a family home.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • During the 19th century, many poor families sent their children to a baby-farm due to economic hardship. (A paid child-care facility for infants.)
  • The scandal revealed that the baby-farm was overcrowded and lacked proper sanitation. (A commercial establishment for baby care, often with negative connotations.)

Advanced Usage

• "to run a baby-farm": to operate such an establishment.
  • She was accused of running a baby-farm that neglected the children's health. (Operating a paid child-care facility for infants.)

Variants and Related Words

• No common compound words or variants directly derived from "baby-farm" exist in standard English; the term is itself a compound noun.

Synonyms

• Nursery: a place where young children are cared for, often more neutral or professional.
• Creche: a facility for the care of infants and toddlers, especially while parents work.
• Childcare center: a modern, regulated facility for child care.

Related Idioms

• No idioms directly use "baby-farm"; however, the term is historically associated with baby-farming, a practice often criticized for exploitation.

Phrasal Verbs

• No phrasal verbs are formed with "baby-farm."