Cradle

(krāʼdl.) [A.S. cr adel. (Shipbuilding.) A framework used in supporting as hip on the ways, preparatory to launching.-(Fine Arts.) In engraving, an apparatus used in the preparation of plates for mezzotints.(Mining.) A wooden contrivance, used by gold-miners for washing away particles of gold from ores, sand, .: -so named from its resemblance to an infant's cot. -(Agric.) A scythe to which a wooden frame is attached, which gathers in the grain while it is being mowed. (Surg.) A thin wooden semicircular plate applied to fractures and the like, to prevent pain to the patient from coming into contact with the bedclothes. [s. 240]