Birth

Definition

Birth is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the process of bringing forth a child or animal from the womb, or the origin or beginning of something. As a verb, it means to give birth or to bring into existence.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɝθ/
• Respelling: burth

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɜːθ/
• Respelling: burth

The pronunciation of "birth" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in vowel sounds.

Etymology

The word "birth" originates from Middle English "birthe," which was derived from Old Norse "byrthr," meaning "the act of bringing forth." It evolved to mean both the process of childbirth and the beginning of existence or origin.

Derivatives

• Birthplace (noun)
• Birthing (adjective/verb)
• Birthright (noun)
• Rebirth (noun)
• Afterbirth (noun)

Synonyms

• Origin
• Beginning
• Creation

Antonyms

• Death
• End
• Conclusion

Usage

The term "birth" is commonly used to describe the start of life, as in "The birth of her child was a joyous occasion." It can also describe the beginning of non-living things, as in "The birth of a new idea."

Related Terms

• Labor: The process leading up to birth, particularly the contractions and efforts to deliver.
• Gestation: The period of development within the womb before birth.
• Parturition: The act of giving birth, often used in medical contexts.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act or process of being born: Refers to the beginning of life as a physical event, particularly in mammals.
  • Example: "The birth of the twins was celebrated by the whole family."
• The origin or beginning of something: Describes the inception of ideas, movements, or other non-living entities.
  • Example: "The Renaissance marked the birth of modern art."

Verb

• To give birth: Refers to the act of bringing forth a child or young.
  • Example: "She birthed her child at home with a midwife."
• To create or bring into existence: Used metaphorically to indicate the start or formation of something.
  • Example: "The new policies birthed a wave of change."