Definition

Noun: 1. A device to assist infants in walking: A baby-walker is a rigid frame on wheels or casters that surrounds a young child. It provides support and mobility, allowing a child who cannot yet walk independently to move around in an upright position by using their feet to push against the floor.

Usage

• The primary function of a baby-walker is to aid in the developmental stage between crawling and independent walking.
• It is designed for indoor use on flat surfaces.
• Note: Modern pediatric guidelines often discourage the use of baby-walkers due to safety concerns, such as the risk of falls down stairs or increased access to hazardous areas.

Examples

• "Before he could walk on his own, he spent hours each day scooting around the kitchen in his baby-walker."
• "Many parents choose not to use a baby-walker and opt for stationary activity centers instead."
• "The pediatrician advised against a baby-walker, citing potential safety risks."

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to describe any supportive framework or initial training period that helps someone begin a new activity.
  • Example: "The internship program acted as a baby-walker for her career in journalism, providing essential early support."

Variants and Related Words

• Walker: A more general term that can refer to a baby-walker but is also used for a walking aid for the elderly or infirm.
• Go-cart (archaic): An older term sometimes used for a similar device.

Synonyms

• Infant walker
• Walking frame (for babies; note: this is more commonly used for mobility aids for adults)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Baby walker safety: A common phrase referring to guidelines and concerns about the safe use of the device.
• Baby walker ban: Refers to regulations in some countries that prohibit the sale or manufacture of certain types of baby-walkers.

Noun

1. an enclosing framework on casters or wheels; helps babies learn to walk