Definition of tot

The word "tot" is an old English term that originally meant "child" or "young animal." However, in modern usage, it specifically refers to a very young child, typically between the ages of 1 and 3 years old. The meaning of "tot" as a term for young children may have evolved from its use to describe young animals, as both require care and protection during their early stages of development. The Old English word for "child," "ceorl," eventually evolved into the Middle English word "childe," and from there, the modern English term "child" emerged. However, the word "tot" has held onto its original meaning, providing a distinctive term for the earliest stages of a child's life.