WordGarden.iocrybaby
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /krˈaɪbeɪbi/
US
- /ˈkraɪˈbeɪbi/
Meanings
Noun
a person mocked for crying, complaining, or getting upset too easily
Beyond the definition
Calling someone a "crybaby" isn't exactly a compliment! It describes a person—usually a child, but sometimes an adult acting like one—who complains and cries over small things. Think of little Timmy throwing a tantrum because his cookie broke in half; that's classic crybaby behavior. While it can be playful teasing between friends, it's often used to dismiss someone as weak or too sensitive. It implies they don't handle small disappointments well and get upset too easily. You might hear someone say, "Don't be such a crybaby!" when encouraging another person to toughen up.
The term "crybaby" is an informal, often slightly derogatory label for someone seen as crying or complaining too much, especially over minor issues. It's often tied to the unfair idea that crying shows weakness, and calling someone a crybaby suggests they lack emotional control or resilience.
Historically, it was primarily used to describe children who frequently cried, but its usage has expanded to include adults showing similar behavior—perhaps someone who dramatically complains about a small inconvenience or gets easily upset. Sometimes it's used even when there are no tears, just a lot of complaining. It's important to note that the term carries a judgmental tone and can be hurtful. While playful teasing among close friends might use "crybaby" affectionately, it's generally best avoided when addressing someone genuinely struggling with their emotions.
The context is key: saying "He was being a bit of a crybaby after losing the game" implies frustration at perceived overreaction. However, dismissing someone's genuine sadness as simply being a "crybaby" can be insensitive and invalidating. The phrase often appears in stories or conversations highlighting childhood experiences or contrasting emotional maturity. Think of a character arc where someone stops being a crybaby—it signifies growth and the development of coping mechanisms.
Examples
- 1
Playground insult
The other kids called him a crybaby when he ran to the teacher after losing the game.
- 2
Direct criticism
Don't be such a crybaby. It's only a small scratch.
- PhraseDon't be such a crybaby
stop reacting in an overly emotional way
- 3
Toughness contrast
She's no crybaby, but even she said the hike was too hard.
- Phraseno crybaby
not someone who complains easily
- 4
Dismissive labeling
He acts like anyone who complains about the rules is a crybaby.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- crybabynoun