Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cradle-snatcher

noun
/ˈkreɪ.dl ˌsnætʃ.ər/
Definition
A person, typically a man, who seeks to pursue relationships with much younger individuals, particularly in a romantic or sexual context.
Examples
  • He was often labeled a cradle-snatcher for dating women half his age.
  • The tabloids loved to gossip about her relationships with younger men, calling her a cradle-snatcher.
  • Critics described him as a cradle-snatcher due to his frequent romances with teenagers.
Meaning
The term commonly refers to someone who is considered inappropriate or morally questionable for engaging in relationships with significantly younger partners, implying that they are taking advantage of the age difference.
Synonyms
  • age-gap lover
  • Younger partner seeker
  • Cougar (for women with younger partners)