Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

rob-the-cradle

idiom

/rɒb ðə ˈkreɪdəl/

Definition

To engage in a romantic relationship with someone who is significantly younger, especially when the age difference is socially inappropriate.

Examples

Many people criticized him for robbing the cradle when he started dating someone half his age.
She was wary of dating older men, fearing they might want to rob the cradle.

Meaning

The phrase refers to an adult dating or being involved with someone much younger than themselves, often implying a predatory or inappropriate nature in the relationship.