babe in arms

Very young child

A babe in arms is an infant young enough to be carried—not yet able to walk.

The phrase extends to anyone naive or inexperienced: When it comes to politics, I'm a babe in arms.

The image emphasizes helplessness and dependence on others for guidance.

Related

cradled · helpless · suckling · ingénue · fresh faced · blank slate · swaddled · vulnerable · dependent · cherub · papoose · neonate · greenhorn · naïf · innocent · beginner · nursing · nursemaid

Opposites
developmental stage/maturity

babe in armsadult

Mature person, legally responsible

grownup · grown-up · elder · senior citizen · mature adult

experience/worldliness

babe in armsveteran

Experienced former soldier

old hand · seasoned pro · wise elder · man of the world · woman of the world

dependency/autonomy

babe in armscaregiver

One providing daily assistance

breadwinner · provider · head of household · patriarch · matriarch

Family

babe, babes, baby, babies, babyish, babyhood, arm, arms, armed

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G