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Glite Dictionary
Benjamin Spock

Benjamin Spock

1 5.4
An American doctor for children whose books changed how parents raise children
  • proper noun
  • /ˈbɛndʒəmɪn spɑk/
: Benjamin Spock
  • The famous pediatrician Benjamin Spock revolutionized child care.

Examples

  • Many parents in the 20th century relied on Benjamin Spock's advice for raising their children.

  • The books written by Benjamin Spock became bestsellers among new mothers and fathers.

  • Benjamin Spock revolutionized the way society viewed child-rearing and parenting.

  • Many parents still refer to Benjamin Spock for advice.

  • Benjamin Spock was a pioneer in pediatric medicine, known for his groundbreaking views on child care.

  • The parenting techniques suggested by Benjamin Spock have been embraced by millions around the world.

  • Benjamin Spock's writings on child development have had a lasting impact on parenting practices.

Synonyms

Spock
vsBenjamin Spock
9 6.1

A last name used by some people

refers specifically to a famous pediatrician and child care author

Surface Forms

Benjamin Spock main

Morphology

Benjamin + Spock

This is a proper name referring to a specific individual; knowing the constituents 'Benjamin' (a given name) and 'Spock' (a surname) does not allow a B1 learner to infer the biographical meaning (that he was a US pediatrician and author). Proper names are referential and arbitrary rather than compositional, so the meaning cannot be derived from the parts.

Etymology

Benjamin Spock was an American doctor for children who wrote a famous book telling parents to be relaxed, loving, and to trust their own judgment. Because of this, his name now stands for modern 'parenting' and practical 'child-care' advice.