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paddling pool

(UK) A pool, often inflatable, only able to contain enough water to paddle as opposed to swim; a kiddie pool.

ˈpædəlɪŋ ˈpulCurrent230 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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3 citations · last seen May 2026

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UK
#1·Apr 27, 2026UK

(UK) A pool, often inflatable, only able to contain enough water to paddle as opposed to swim; a kiddie pool.

For parents

Paddling pool means: A pool, often inflatable, only able to contain enough water to paddle as opposed to swim; a kiddie pool.. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

For ESL learners

paddling pool means: A pool, often inflatable, only able to contain enough water to paddle as opposed to swim; a kiddie pool.. Register: neutral, standard English. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.

Cluster: disagree
Heard in the wild
  • “The talent pool in the Liberal Party is about as deep as a kids paddling pool.”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
  • “There was a paddling pool here for the little uns but it's gone, and that's about it for Whitley Bay. Still a lovely little seaside town, out of fashion but it's still got excellent fish and chips shops 😋”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
  • “Walks in nature. Seeing more wildlife coming out. Spending time in the garden. Outdoor bouncy castles at little events. I really wanna do a paddling pool actually….”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
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For specific readers

Paddling pool means: A pool, often inflatable, only able to contain enough water to paddle as opposed to swim; a kiddie pool.. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

Why is this section here?

Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.

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