babysitting

word · lemma: babysit

/ˈbeɪbiˌsɪtɪŋ/
BAY-bee-si-ding
/bˈeɪbɪsˌɪtɪŋ/
BAY-bi-si-ting

Definition

Taking care of someone else's child, usually for a short time when the parents are away. It often means watching children in their home.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly informal; often used for teenagers earning money by watching neighborhood kids. Not the same as professional child care. Common phrases: 'do babysitting', 'babysitting job', 'babysitting gig'.

Example Sentences

She is babysitting her neighbor's kids tonight.

basic

My cousin loves babysitting.

basic

I'm babysitting for the Johnsons while they're at a wedding.

natural

Honestly, babysitting three kids at once was exhausting!

natural

I made money by babysitting last summer.

basic

Do you have any babysitting experience?

natural