nanny

word

/ˈnæni/
NA-nee
/nˈæni/
NA-nee

Definition

A nanny is a person whose job is to take care of children, usually in the children's home. The word can also be used informally for a grandmother in some families.

Usage & Nuances

Usually refers to someone hired to care for children regularly, not just for one evening; for that, 'babysitter' is more common. Common phrases include 'hire a nanny', 'full-time nanny', and 'live-in nanny'. 'Nanny state' is a separate political expression meaning a government seen as too controlling.

Example Sentences

She works as a live-in nanny for a family in London.

natural

Their nanny picks the children up from school.

basic

We need a nanny for our baby.

basic

The nanny made lunch for the kids.

basic

We finally found a nanny we really trust.

natural

Our nanny has been with us since my daughter was six months old.

natural