cradle of civilization
noun phraseUK /ˈkreɪ.dəl əv ˌsɪv.əl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/
US /ˈkreɪ.dəl əv ˌsɪv.əl.əˈzeɪ.ʃən/
A place where one of the first human societies began and grew.
Mesopotamia is often called the cradle of civilization because cities and writing started there.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A region where farming and town life first appeared.
The Fertile Crescent is a famous cradle of civilization.
3. A place known for starting an important idea or way of life.
Some call the river valley the cradle of civilization for early laws.
4. A term used for several ancient regions, such as Egypt, India, and China.
Each river valley is seen as a cradle of civilization in its own way.