WordGarden.iobirth
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /bˈɜːθ/
US
- /ˈbɜrθ/
Meanings
Noun
the event or process of a baby being born; childbirth
the beginning or coming into existence of something
Beyond the definition
Birth isn't just about babies! While we often think of birth as the moment a new life enters the world, it also refers to the start of anything. The birth of an idea can happen in a flash of inspiration, and the birth of a nation is marked by its declaration of independence.
Think of it like this: everything has a beginning, and that beginning is its birth. A star's birth happens within swirling clouds of gas and dust, while a river's birth might be a tiny spring high in the mountains. You can even talk about the "birth" of a trend—when something new starts to become popular. So next time you hear "birth," remember it signifies not just life, but any origin story.
The word "birth" most commonly refers to the process of bringing a baby or other young animal into the world. It's a powerful and transformative event, marking the beginning of a new life and often filled with joy, hope, and anticipation. "After a long labor, the doctor announced the birth of a healthy baby girl."
However, "birth" extends far beyond biological beginnings. It can describe the origin or creation of anything—an idea, a movement, a feeling, or even a new era. We speak of the "birth of democracy," referring to its origins in ancient Greece, or the "birth of jazz" in New Orleans.
The concept of birth implies coming into being, emerging from something else. A sculptor might talk about giving "birth" to a statue as it takes shape from clay. A writer may describe the difficult "birth" of a novel after months of struggle.
Figuratively, "birth" can also suggest hardship or pain associated with creation. The phrase "give birth to something new" often implies significant effort and difficulty alongside the excitement of innovation.
So, whether it's the miracle of life entering the world, the spark of an idea taking hold, or the emergence of a new era—"birth" signifies beginnings, origins, and the powerful act of coming into being.
Examples
- 1
New baby
The birth of their first child changed their lives completely.
- 2
Childbirth experience
Her second child's birth was much easier than the first.
- 3
Having a baby
She gave birth to a healthy baby boy last week.
- Phrasegive birth to
have a baby
- 4
Lifelong condition
He has been blind since birth.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Hospital procedure
At birth, each baby is given a hospital wristband.
- Phraseat birth
when a baby is born
- 6
Official forms
The form asks for your date of birth.
- Phrasedate of birth
the day you were born
- 7
National identity
She is Canadian by birth, but she has lived in Italy for years.
- Phraseby birth
because of where or how you were born
- 8
Beginning
The invention of the internet led to the birth of entirely new industries.
- Phrasethe birth of
the beginning of something
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- give birth
- birth certificate
- date of birth
- premature birth
Word family
- born
- birthing
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- birthnounverb
Forms
- birthspluralnounverb