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.
- infantVery young child
- childPerson before puberty
- newbornInfant just delivered
- little oneYoung child, fondly
- bundle of joyAffectionate term for infant
cradled · helpless · suckling · ingénue · fresh faced · blank slate · swaddled · vulnerable · dependent · cherub · papoose · neonate · greenhorn · naïf · innocent · beginner · nursing · nursemaid
babe in armsadult
Mature person, legally responsible
grownup · grown-up · elder · senior citizen · mature adult
babe in armsveteran
Experienced former soldier
old hand · seasoned pro · wise elder · man of the world · woman of the world
babe in armscaregiver
One providing daily assistance
breadwinner · provider · head of household · patriarch · matriarch
babe, babes, baby, babies, babyish, babyhood, arm, arms, armed