couvade
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.


cou·vade

noun \kü-ˈväd\

Definition of COUVADE

: a custom in some cultures in which when a child is born the father takes to bed as if bearing the child and submits himself to fasting, purification, or taboos

Origin of COUVADE

French, from Middle French, cowardly inactivity, from cover to sit on, brood over — more at covey
First Known Use: 1865

cou·vade

noun \kü-ˈväd\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of COUVADE

1
: a custom in some cultures in which when a child is born the father takes to bed as if bearing the child and submits himself to fasting, purification, or taboos

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: couvert
Previous Word in the Dictionary: couturiere
All Words Near: couvade

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up couvade? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Name That Thing

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

Get Our Free Apps
Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More
Join Us on FB & Twitter
Get the Word of the Day and More