μωρό
Wordform Details
Translation: babyinfant
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
neutersingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: μωρό
Translation: baby; infant (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek μωρός (mōrós) meaning 'foolish' or 'dull'. The semantic shift from 'foolish' to 'infant' reflects the helpless nature of babies. The Ancient Greek root also gave English the word 'moron', though with a different semantic development.
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'moron' (from the same root) as someone who is helpless like a baby.
- The 'mo' sound in μωρό is similar to the beginning of 'mother', who cares for a baby.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, babies are highly cherished, and there are many traditions surrounding birth and infancy. The 'evil eye' (μάτι) is believed to affect babies, so many infants wear protective charms. The formal baptism of a baby is also a significant cultural event in Greek Orthodox families.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'μωρό' means 'baby', 'μωρός' is an adjective meaning 'foolish' or 'stupid'. They share the same etymology, but have different grammatical functions and meanings in modern Greek.
This word:
Το μωρό κοιμάται.
The baby is sleeping.
Confused word:
Μην είσαι μωρός!
Don't be foolish!
Notes: The connection between these words reflects the historical view of babies as helpless and without developed reasoning.
Mnemonic: Remember: the noun (baby) has no accent, while the adjective (foolish) has an accent on the final syllable.
Explanation: 'Μωρό' specifically means 'baby' or 'infant', while 'μικρό' is a more general term meaning 'small one' or 'little one' that can refer to a child of any age, not just babies.
Notes: 'Μικρό' is more versatile and can even be used for small things that aren't children.
Mnemonic: Think of 'μωρό' as specifically for newborns and infants, while 'μικρό' can be any small child.