toddle

American  

[tod-l] / ˈtɒd l /

verb (used without object)

toddled, toddling

1. to move with short, unsteady steps, as a young child.

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noun

1. the act of toddling.

2. an unsteady gait.

toddle British  

/ ˈtɒdəl /

verb

1. to walk with short unsteady steps, as a child does when learning to walk

2. humorous (foll by off) to depart

3. humorous to stroll; amble

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noun

1. the act or an instance of toddling

Etymology

Origin of toddle

First recorded in 1490–1500; to(tter) + (wa)ddle

Example Sentences

Not to be outdone by the Silent Generation, 2-year-old Rhea also showed up, first clinging to her mom, then toddling around on her own as if she owned the place.

From Los Angeles Times

Elsa is now just over one year old and is toddling and bright.

From BBC

On a recent morning, a 16-month-old boy toddled up a small embankment to touch wind chimes hanging from trees.

From Seattle Times

The owner’s granddaughter toddled forward and offered me the coin she had pried from under Samir’s foot.

From Literature

The players’ kids toddling around the locker room receive the lesson as soon as possible.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• totter
• waddle
• wobble