"Out of the mouths of babes" is a well-known idiom that originates from the Bible, specifically Psalms 8:2. This phrase is often used to highlight how sometimes profound, wise, or surprising statements can unexpectedly come from children or those with less experience. 

In short:

"Out of the mouths of babes" refers to surprising wisdom coming from unexpected sources, like children or inexperienced individuals.

What Does "Out of the Mouths of Babes" Mean?

The idiom "Out of the mouths of babes" originates from a biblical phrase and has evolved over time into an expression used in general conversation. This saying is frequently used to communicate that children, despite their age and innocence, often say startlingly wise or insightful things.

• It highlights the unfiltered honesty that often comes from children.
• It conveys the notion that wisdom isn't exclusive to adults or the learned.
• The phrase usually carries a tone of surprise and admiration.

Other variations of this phrase include "Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings," a direct quote from the Bible, and "Children often tell the truth."

Where Does "Out of the Mouths of Babes" Come From?

The idiom"' Out of the mouths of babes" has a long-standing history, tracing its roots back to biblical times. The phrase "Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings" is originally from the Bible. 

Historical Example

"Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightiest still the enemy and the avenger."

-New Testament, Psalms 8:2, King James Version

"Out of the mouths of babes, said Richard Swiveller solemnly; 'I am an older boy than Weevel Mind that."

-The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens, 1841

10 Examples of "Out of the Mouths of Babes" in Sentences

Below are examples of the idiom used in various contexts:

• During the family reunion, little Timmy spouted out the secret of his dad's surprise party, exemplifying out of the mouths of babes and leaving everyone in the know.
• When she stated that everyone should be friends during a heated argument, it was a moment of wisdom out of the mouth of a babe.
• Yes, please," said the wise old man; profound wisdom comes out of the mouths of babes.
• Her son unwittingly resolved the situation by stating, Why not just share? It was pure wisdom from the mouth of a babe.
• When my daughter told me, You should be happy because you're alive, I realized the profound truth out of the mouth of a babe.
• Sometimes, the unexpected wisdom that comes out of the mouths of babes can make even the most stubborn person want to hop off their high horse and reconsider their views.
• His youthful observation, "Why do adults make things so complicated?' This was yet another instance of insight out of the mouths of babes.
• During a political debate, the child suddenly said, 'Shouldn't leaders love all people?' A poignant message out of the mouth of a babe.
• As we were arguing, my son quipped, Can't we all just get along? A moment of clarity from the mouth of a babe.
• Sometimes, even though we may feel worn out from the daily grind, it's incredible how the most profound wisdom can come out of the mouths of babes.

Examples of "Out of the Mouths of Babes" in Pop Culture

The idiom has also made its mark in pop culture, appearing in various forms of media:

• In the TV show "The Simpsons," the character Lisa often delivers pearls of wisdom, reflecting the trope out of the mouths of babes.
• The movie "Little Miss Sunshine" effectively uses this idiom, with the young character Olive offering insights that adults often overlook.
• The song "Out of the Mouths of Babes" by Paddy Roberts directly refers to this idiom.
• In the film "Pay It Forward," the concept originated from a child, illustrating the truth out of the mouth of a babe.
• The children's book "The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is a classic example of wisdom coming out of the mouth of a babe.
• In the book "To Kill a Mockingbird," the character Scout often conveys wisdom, embodying the essence of the phrase out of the mouths of babes.
• The film "The Sixth Sense" captures the essence of this idiom, with the child protagonist revealing profound truths.
• The movie "Room" highlights the idiom, as the young boy Jack often says things that are surprisingly insightful.

Other Ways to Say "Out of the Mouths of Babes" in Sentences

Several alternative expressions convey a similar meaning to "out of the mouths of babes."

Some of these include:

• Wisdom often comes from the lips of children.
• Truth is often spoken by children.
• Children often embrace the motto no guts, no glory by fearlessly speaking the truth.
• Insights often come from the young.
• Youngsters can unexpectedly speak wisdom.
• The innocence of children often reveals the truth.
• Children, in their simplicity, often express profound truths.
• Truth often comes out when one is as uninhibited as being two sheets to the wind.
• Young ones can surprisingly utter wisdom.
• Innocent children often speak wisdom, embodying the spirit of let it be.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Out of the Mouths of Babes"

• What is the origin of "Out of the mouths of babes"?

The idiom originates from the Bible, specifically Psalms 8:2 in the King James Version.

• What does the idiom "Out of the mouths of babes" mean?

The idiom signifies the surprising moments when children express insights or truths that adults might overlook.

• Are there other variations of this idiom?

Yes, variations include "Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings" and "Children often tell the truth."

• How is this idiom used in pop culture?

The idiom is often portrayed in films, TV shows, and literature, with characters expressing profound truths or insights.

• Why is this idiom still relevant today?

The idiom remains relevant due to its focus on honesty and wisdom, traits that are timeless and universal.

• Does this idiom imply that children are wiser than adults?

Not necessarily. It highlights the unexpected moments of wisdom from children, not implying they are wiser than adults.

• Can this idiom be used in a formal context?

Yes, it can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• Is this idiom used worldwide?

Yes, as it originates from the Bible, it is recognized and used in many English-speaking parts of the world.

• Are there similar idioms in other languages?

Yes, similar idioms highlighting the wisdom or truthfulness of children exist in other languages too.

• How can I incorporate this idiom in my writing or speech?

The idiom can be used to underscore an unexpected moment of insight or truth coming from a child or a younger person.

Final Thoughts About "Out of the Mouths of Babes"

The idiom "Out of the mouths of babes" is a remarkable example of how language encapsulates the wisdom and innocence of children. This phrase serves as a reminder that wisdom isn't tied to age or experience alone. It can spring from the most unexpected sources, like the unfiltered honesty of a child.

Key aspects of the phrase "out of the mouths of babes":

• The idiom underscores the unexpected wisdom and truth children can express.
• It is widely used in everyday language and popular culture.
• The idiom carries a tone of surprise and admiration.