parenthood

noun

par·​ent·​hood ˈper-ənt-ˌhu̇d 

: the state of being a parent

specifically : the position, function, or standing of a parent

Synonyms

• parenting

Examples of parenthood in a Sentence

parenthood is a difficult task requiring great commitment

Recent Examples on the Web

Such is the case for Phil Collins, Madonna, Beyoncé and Billy Joel, who all used the experience of parenthood to inspire some of our favorite ballads and pop tunes that have stood the test of time. —Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 16 Mar. 2025

Ideally, your family throws your baby shower to mark your transition into parenthood surrounded by love and joy in the least stressful environment possible. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 13 Mar. 2025

Tomkins—drawing on her personal experience with IVF and her expertise in finance—has led Future Family to become a leading provider of fertility financing and coaching, paving the way for a more accessible and more affordable path to parenthood. —Geri Stengel, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025

Aware of the long journey of parenthood ahead, one first-time mom turned to Reddit for answers. —Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for parenthood

• adulthood
• babyhood
• brotherhood
• cottonwood
• fatherhood
• firewood
• fuelwood
• hardihood
• ironwood
• leatherwood
• likelihood
• livelihood