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

Should policies be enacted to protect individuals from being permanently severed from their right to parenthood due to shifting immigration laws? —Andrew Rader, Sun Sentinel, 23 Feb. 2025

My parents’ struggles mirror so many parents today, and the price of parenthood has gotten only steeper. —Reshma Saujani, Chicago Tribune, 20 Feb. 2025

Even within these supposedly universal rules of parenthood, that is, there’s a lot of variability. —Olga Khazan, The Atlantic, 18 Feb. 2025

This season, Hall’s show has touched on subjects like medical gaslighting, true crime, parenthood and more, with guests that have included Deion Sanders, Mary J. Blige, Macy Gray, Jaleel White, Kirk Franklin, Miranda Lambert, Wayne Brady and Bebe Winans. —Nick Caruso, TVLine, 17 Feb. 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