from the cradle to the grave Definition

cradle
noun

1. A cot for a small baby, especially one that can be rocked.

Thesaurus: crib, bassinet, trundle bed (US).
2. A place of origin; the home or source of something.

Example: the cradle of civilization
Thesaurus: origin, spring, source, fountain, well.
3. A suspended platform or cage for workmen engaged in the construction, repair or painting of a ship or building.
4. The support for the receiver on an old-style telephone.
5. A box in which sand, stones, etc are washed in order to separate them from any gold contained.

verb cradled, cradling

1. To rock or hold gently.
2. To nurture.
3. To wash (stones, sand, etc containing gold) in a cradle.

Idiom: from the cradle to the grave

Throughout the whole of one's life.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon kradol.