babysit

ba-by-sit · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To take care of a child or children while the parents are away, typically for a short period.

  2. 2.

    (Informal, figurative) To watch over or take care of something or someone who should be able to function independently.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    babysit for someone — To care for someone's children.
  • •
    need a babysitter — To require childcare services.

Related words

See also: babysitter, babysitting, childcare, nanny
Synonyms: look after, mind, watch

Etymology

From English baby + sit, first attested in the 1940s. A back-formation from "babysitter."