Foundling Meaning in English
word
Definition
A foundling is a baby or young child who has been abandoned by their parents and is then found and cared for by others.
Usage & Nuances
'Foundling' is now a formal or literary word, mostly used in historical or fictional contexts. Nowadays, more common terms are 'abandoned child' or 'orphan', though 'foundling' only refers to children found after being left alone by parents. It does not apply to older children or those purposefully given to caretakers.
Example Sentences
Back in the day, many foundlings were discovered on city streets.
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It was heartbreaking to read about a foundling in the news.
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There are entire novels built around the story of a foundling.
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A foundling was left at the church door.
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They named the foundling after the town.
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The orphanage took care of the foundling.
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