crèche

American  

[kresh, kreysh, kresh] / krɛʃ, kreɪʃ, krɛʃ /

noun

plural

crèches

1. a small or large modeled representation or tableau of Mary, Joseph, and others around the crib of Jesus in the stable at Bethlehem, as is displayed in homes or erected for exhibition in a community at Christmas season.

2. a home for foundlings.

3. British. a day-care center; day nursery.

4. Animal Behavior. an assemblage of dependent young that are cared for communally.

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crèche British  

/ krɛʃ, kreɪʃ, krɛʃ /

noun

1. 1. a day nursery for very young children

   2. a supervised play area provided for young children for short periods

2. a tableau of Christ's Nativity

3. a foundling home or hospital

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Usage

What does crèche mean? A crèche is a nativity scene—a model of a scene depicting the birth of Jesus.Crèches are often displayed in or outside of homes or churches during Advent, the season preceding Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Jesus and is among the most important Christian holidays. A crèche is also commonly called a Nativity scene or simply a Nativity.Crèche is also sometimes used to refer to a childcare facility like a day care. This sense of the word is primarily used in the United Kingdom.It is sometimes seen without the accent mark, which comes from its French spelling.Example: My children’s favorite part of the crèche is the goats and other animals.

Etymology

Origin of crèche

1785–95; < French, Old French < Frankish *kripja crib

Related Words

• child care
• daycare
• nursery
• nursery school
• preschool