bassinet

American  

[bas-uh-net, bas-uh-net] / ˌbæs əˈnɛt, ˈbæs əˌnɛt /

noun

1. a basket with a hood over one end, for use as a baby's cradle.

2. a style of perambulator resembling this.

3. Armor. basinet.

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bassinet British  

/ ˌbæsɪˈnɛt /

noun

1. a wickerwork or wooden cradle or pram, usually hooded

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Etymology

Origin of bassinet

1570–80; < French: pan; see basin, -et

Explanation

A bassinet is a small basket used as a bed for a baby. A bassinet is portable, making it easy to carry the baby around. The et ending in bassinet is a clue that this is something small, specifically a small basket used for carrying a baby. The baby also can sleep in the bassinet. Like baby clothes, the bassinet will be quickly outgrown, but it's very helpful for awhile. A bassinet is a common present for a mother to receive at a baby shower. Awwww.