Same Pacifier, Different Names
Pacifiers…binkies…pluggis…self soothers. They all mean the same thing. Depending on where you live though, you call them something different.
For example, in the United Kingdom, pacifiers are referred to as “dummies.” In Australia and New Zealand, they are called “soothers.” In Germany and Austria, they say “Schnuller.” In France, they are called “sucettes.” And lastly, in Spain and Latin America, they are called “chupetes.”
It is also common for families to have their own names for pacifiers. Growing up, I always called them “pluggies.” Now that I have a son, I refer to them as “binkies.” Some of my friends call them “pacis.” Guess what? They all mean the same thing!
Why Do Babies Use Pacifiers?
Regardless of what name we use, pacifiers are beneficial to our babies for many reasons:
- Soothing: Pacifiers can be very effective at soothing fussy or upset infants. The sucking motion can be calming and comforting for babies.
- Sleep: Pacifiers can help infants fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. This can be especially helpful for parents who are struggling to get their babies to sleep through the night.
- Pain relief: Pacifiers can help to provide pain relief for infants who are teething or experiencing other types of discomfort.
- Reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS): Studies have shown that using a pacifier while sleeping can help to reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Eases travel: Pacifiers can be very useful during travel, as they can help to calm and comfort infants during long car or plane rides.
It’s important to note that while pacifiers can have benefits, they should be used in moderation and with caution. Prolonged use or misuse of pacifiers can lead to dental problems, speech delays, and other issues. Parents should always consult with their pediatrician before introducing a pacifier to their infant.
Take a look at all of the different names for the pacifier!
11. Pacifier
(Photo by Clemens Bilan/Getty Images)
The term “pacifier” is the most widely recognized and commonly used term for this item in the United States,
10. Binky
(Photo by Stephen Morton/Getty Images)
The term “binky” is more commonly used in the United States, particularly in the Midwest and Western regions. The origin of the term “binky” is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated as a brand name for pacifiers.
9. Dummy
(Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)
In the United Kingdom, the term “dummy” is commonly used to refer to pacifiers. This term is also used in other parts of the world, such as Australia and New Zealand.
8. Soother
(Photo by Ian Forsyth/Getty Images)
The term “soother” is more commonly used in Canada, particularly in the eastern provinces such as Ontario and Quebec. In the United States, it is more commonly used in the northeastern states, such as Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire. Basically, Canada came up with the name, and if you live close to Canada you might call it a “soother” as well.
6. Passy
(Photo illustration by Daniel Berehulak/Getty Images)
It appears to be a regional term that is most commonly used in the Southern United States, particularly in the states of Georgia and Louisiana.
5. Paci
(Photo by Athanasios Gioumpasis/Getty Images)
It’s just slang for “pacifier.”
4. Plug (Or Pluggie)
Photo of Ayla Brown
The terms “plug” or “pluggie” for a pacifier are more commonly used in some parts of the United States, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest regions. I grew up in Massachusetts and my mom grew up in Iowa, so it kind of makes sense that they would refer to it as a “pluggie.” (By the way, that’s a picture of me as a baby with my “pluggie!”)
3. Comforter
(Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)
It appears to be a regional term that is most commonly used in the Southeastern United States, particularly in the states of Alabama and Georgia.
2. Suckie
(Photo by Agnete Brun/Dagbladet/All Over Press Norway/Getty Images)
“Suckie” is apparently a regional term that is most commonly used in some parts of the Midwest and Western United States.
1. Teether
Closeup view on open mouth of baby. First teeth growing.
The term “teether” is more commonly used to describe a different type of infant toy or device that is used to help soothe teething pain, but some people still call a pacifier a “teether” because they can assist in the teething of your infant.
