infancy

[ in-fuhn-see ]

noun

, plural in·fan·cies.

1. the state or period of being an infant; very early childhood, usually the period before being able to walk; babyhood.
2. the corresponding period in the existence of anything; very early stage:

   Space science is in its infancy.

3. infants collectively.
4. Law. the period of life to the age of majority, 21 years at common law but now usually 18; minority; nonage.

infancy

/ ˈɪnfənsɪ /

noun

1. the state or period of being an infant; childhood
2. an early stage of growth or development
3. infants collectively
4. the period of life prior to attaining legal majority (reached at 21 under common law, at 18 by statute); minority nonage

Word History and Origins

Origin of infancy¹

From the Latin word infantia, dating back to 1485–95. See infant, -cy

Example Sentences

Then, price comparison websites were in their infancy, and each specialised in one particular product.

From BBC

Tommy Hills, a teacher and freelance computer science lecturer, says AI is still in its infancy.

From BBC

The UK is comparatively in its infancy here, but in the Indian city of Bangalore for example, you can now buy a bus ticket, and choose your seat, all via Whatsapp.

From BBC

Over the last century, he has endured because the character captures a clashing of worlds at a time when Los Angeles was in its infancy; it’s a story ripe for reinvention.

From Los Angeles Times

With Clipper leaving Earth, the remaining future flagship missions are either in their infancy or embroiled in financial and management woes.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• inception