View synonyms for

infancy

[in-fuhn-see]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

plural

infancies

the state or period of being an infant; very early childhood, usually the period before being able to walk; babyhood.
the corresponding period in the existence of anything; very early stage.
Space science is in its infancy.
infants collectively.
Law.��the period of life to the age of majority, 21 years at common law but now usually 18; minority; nonage.

infancy

/ ˈɪ�Դ�ə�Բ�ɪ /

noun

the state or period of being an infant; childhood
an early stage of growth or development
infants collectively
the period of life prior to attaining legal majority (reached at 21 under common law, at 18 by statute); minority nonage

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Word History and Origins

Origin of infancy¹

From the Latin word infantia, dating back to 1485–95. See infant, -cy

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The SMR industry is in its infancy and, around the world, about 80 different designs are being investigated.

From

Such orders are often placed on criminal probes especially in their infancy to protect investigations by limiting the number of people who have access to sensitive information.

From

Doue smiled broadly as he lifted the trophy, a career in its infancy but with golden years ahead.

From

“One thing that happens in infancy is this process of perceptual narrowing, where babies in some ways have broader perceptual abilities than adults.”

From

"It's fuelling a health crisis that starts in infancy and is almost impossible to undo later in life. Ignoring the issue is no longer an option," she added.

From

Related Words

inception��

infamy infant

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