toddle

[ tod-l ]

verb (used without object)

, tod·dled, tod·dling.

1. to move with short, unsteady steps, as a young child.

noun

1. the act of toddling.
2. an unsteady gait.

toddle

/ ˈtɒdəl /

verb

1. to walk with short unsteady steps, as a child does when learning to walk
2. humorous.
   foll by off to depart
3. humorous.
   foll byround, over, etc to stroll; amble

noun

1. the act or an instance of toddling

Word History and Origins

Origin of toddle¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; to(tter) + (wa)ddle

Word History and Origins

Origin of toddle¹

C16 (Scottish and northern English): of obscure origin

Example Sentences

On a recent morning, a 16-month-old boy toddled up a small embankment to touch wind chimes hanging from trees.

From Seattle Times

The owner’s granddaughter toddled forward and offered me the coin she had pried from under Samir’s foot.

From Literature

The players’ kids toddling around the locker room receive the lesson as soon as possible.

From Seattle Times

My brother’s lungs were formed in West Louisville, where he toddled on plump baby legs toward all the people who loved him.

From Salon

His power is not merely confined to his toddling whimsy or our longstanding friendship with him.

From Salon

Related Words

• totter
• waddle
• wobble