zavinova

Zavinova is a term used in several Slavic languages to denote a wrap or swaddling cloth, typically intended for infants. The word stems from the verb zavinout, meaning to wrap or coil, with the suffix -ova forming a feminine noun. In everyday use, zavinova refers to a piece of fabric that can be folded around a newborn to create a snug, secure cocoon, often made from cotton, muslin, fleece, or similar materials. The concept is closely related to the better-known term zavinovačka, which more explicitly denotes a swaddling blanket designed for babies.

In addition to infant care, the broader sense of zavinova can describe a general wrap or shawl used for clothing or comfort in various cultural contexts. Regional practices for wrapping a baby or wearing a wrap differ, but the underlying idea is the same: a fabric arrangement intended to provide warmth, security, and ease of handling.

Usage and prevalence vary by language. The term is most commonly found in parenting guides, dictionaries, and everyday speech in Czech and Slovak sources, with regional variations in other Slavic languages. In English-language contexts, the concept is usually described with phrases such as “baby swaddle” or “swaddling blanket” rather than using the term zavinova itself.

See also: swaddling, baby wrap, shawl.