WET NURSE Meaning and
Definition
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A wet nurse refers to a woman who breastfeeds and cares for another woman's infant or child, serving as a substitute mother. The term "wet nurse" derives from the idea that the nurse's breasts become wet with milk due to lactation. Historically, wet nursing was common when a birth mother was unable or unwilling to nurse her own child. Wet nurses were hired or sometimes volunteered their services to nourish and nurture infants in need.
The role of a wet nurse involves not only breastfeeding but also ensuring the overall well-being of the child, including bathing, changing diapers, and providing affectionate care. Wet nursing has been practiced for centuries in various cultures and societies, especially in situations where mothers faced challenges such as illness, inadequate milk supply, or social constraints.
In modern times, wet nursing is less common due to advancements in infant formula and the cultural shift towards breastfeeding by birth mothers. However, there are still some instances where wet nursing may be employed, such as when a mother cannot produce enough breast milk or when a baby is unable to feed directly from the breast. Additionally, some women choose to become professional wet nurses, offering their lactation and caregiving services to families in need.
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A nursing woman who gives suck regularly to the child of another.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A nurse who suckles a child instead of its mother.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WET NURSE
- qet nurse
- aet nurse
- set nurse
- eet nurse
- 3et nurse
- 2et nurse
- wwt nurse
- wst nurse
- wdt nurse
- wrt nurse
- w4t nurse
- w3t nurse
- wer nurse
- wef nurse
- weg nurse
- wey nurse
- we6 nurse
- we5 nurse
- wet burse
- wet murse
Etymology of WET NURSE
The word "wet nurse" has its origins in Old English. The term "wet" refers to the fact that the nursemaid would provide breast milk directly from her own breasts, as opposed to a dry nurse who would not nurse the infant. The word "nurse" comes from the Latin word "nutrire", which means "to nourish". So, taken together, "wet nurse" originally referred to a woman who nursed and nourished another woman's child with her own breast milk.
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