cradled

Cradled is the past tense and past participle of the verb cradle. It describes the act of holding or supporting something gently, as a baby is held in a cradle, or of protecting something as if in a cradle. Literally, a parent may cradle a baby in their arms; metaphorically, objects, places, or ideas can be cradled to imply careful support or safekeeping.

In everyday use, people and animals can be cradled. The expression “cradled in her arms” emphasizes tenderness and security; it can also describe protective environments, such as a community cradled by strong social networks or a fragile artifact safely cradled during transport.

In art and display, “cradled” can describe a protective backing: for example, a wooden panel that is cradled with a frame to prevent warping. The term thus extends beyond bodily holding to describe structural support.

Etymology: The verb derives from the noun cradle, with senses dating from Middle English that describe holding or supporting something in a cradle‑like position. The figurative meanings developed as language broadened to cover nurture, shelter, and containment.

See also: cradle, cradling, cradled panel, cradle song.