"Weaning" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
Weaning is the process of gradually stopping or reducing the amount of a substance, such as a medication, food, or liquid, to which a person or animal has become dependent or accustomed to. It can refer to:
The process of a mother ceasing to breastfeed her baby.
The gradual reduction of a baby's dependence on formula or other infant nutrition.
The withdrawal from a substance, such as a drug, in order to overcome addiction or dependence.
Any process of diminishing or stopping a regular intake of a substance.
Example: The doctor recommended a gradual weaning process for the patient to overcome her dependence on opioid medication.
Here are 5 usage examples for the word "weaning":
To wean something or someone means to gradually stop or reduce something, typically a habit, behavior, or a source of supply, so that it becomes less intense or less dependent.<br><br>For example:<br>- "She's trying to wean herself off coffee by gradually reducing the amount she drinks each day."<br>- "The company is trying to wean its employees off the company car allowance by providing free public transportation."<br><br>In a broader sense, to wean can also mean to separate an animal from its mother so that it can become independent, usually by gradually feeding it less often.<br><br>For example:<br>- "The farmer had to wean the calf from its mother's milk so that it could be raised and sold for beef."
A young mammal that is still nursing from its mother, typically from birth to a few months of age.
To make something, especially a skill or ability, into a weapon that can be used to attack or harm others.<br><br>Example: "The company's profits are not its only weapon; it also has a powerful lobby that can influence government decisions."<br><br>Note: This phrase is often used metaphorically to describe a means of exerting power or influence over others.