1. abandoned infants or children of unknown parentage who have been found and cared for by others

Examples

• The orphanage cared for dozens of foundlings left on their doorstep.
• In Victorian times, foundlings were often placed in workhouses.
• The hospital had a special ward for foundlings and abandoned babies.
• Many foundlings were raised by charitable institutions.
• The novel tells the story of two foundlings who discover their true heritage.
• Churches often took in foundlings during times of hardship.