Wean
Verb
Definition: To withdraw (a person) from some object, habit, or course of action.
Definition: To accustom (a person or animal) to take food otherwise than by suckling.
Synonyms: Detach, Separate, Break, Transition
Antonyms: Depend, Rely, Attach
Examples:
- It is important to wean babies off breast milk gradually.
- He decided to wean himself off his addiction to cigarettes.
Mnemonics:
- Think of "weaning" a child off their mother's milk.
- Imagine "weaning" off a bad habit like removing a band-aid slowly.
Etymology:
Origin:
Old English 'wenian', meaning "to accustom".
Historical Usage:The word has been used in English for centuries and derives from the Old English term.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Wean off"
Explanation:To gradually reduce or withdraw from a habit or dependency.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Confusing 'wean' with 'weird'.
Explanation:These words have different meanings and pronunciations. 'Wean' refers to the process of withdrawing or gradually transitioning, while 'weird' means strange or bizarre.