suckling

¹ American  

[suhk-ling] / ˈsʌk lɪŋ /

noun

1. an infant or a young animal that is not yet weaned.

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Suckling ² American  

[suhk-ling] / ˈsʌk lɪŋ /

noun

1. Sir John, 1609–42, English poet.

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suckling ¹ British  

/ ˈsʌklɪŋ /

noun

1. an infant or young animal that is still taking milk from the mother

2. a very young child

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Suckling ² British  

/ ˈsʌklɪŋ /

noun

1. Sir John. 1609–42, English Cavalier poet and dramatist

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Etymology

Origin of suckling

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; see origin at suck, -ling ¹

Example Sentences

Roast pork belly redolent and tender as Castilian suckling pig.

From Salon • Jul. 12, 2025

But a pregnant or suckling female is especially ravenous and will continue to forage for two for up to 1 year after giving birth.

From Science Magazine • May 15, 2024

In 2015, a research team from two U.S. universities tested tunes incorporating feline-centric sounds that included purring and a pulse reminiscent of suckling.

From National Geographic • Jan. 2, 2024

Run by JM Nixon and Son, the farm had 140 suckling beef cattle as well as several holiday cottages and a riding school.

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2023

They ate suckling pig that night, and pigeon pie, and turnips soaking in butter, and afterward the cook had promised honeycombs.

From "A Game of Thrones" by George R.R. Martin