parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈper-ən-tiŋ 

1

: the raising of a child by its parents

2

: the act or process of becoming a parent

3

: the taking care of someone in the manner of a parent

Synonyms of parenting

• parenthood
• raising
• maternity
• mothering

Examples of parenting in a Sentence

They share the responsibilities of parenting.

as the big day approaches, the expectant couple are starting to get worried about their fitness for parenting

Recent Examples on the Web

Since their split, Bündchen -- who welcomed her third child, a son, in 2025 -- has spoken candidly about co-parenting with Brady. —ABC News, 14 June 2026

Women are bracing for hot flashes while the real experience is dominated by exhaustion, mood changes and cognitive symptoms, the kinds of complaints that get attributed to stress, parenting, work or aging in general. —Allison Palmer updated June 13, Charlotte Observer, 13 June 2026

Online parenting buy sell and swap groups plus online platforms like Swoondle, Kidizen, or GoodBuy Gear might be able to take used kids' things. —Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 13 June 2026

Viewers will see the Robertsons build their new ranch and live like Texans, along with juggling parenting and grandparenting their big family. —Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing parenting

• attachment parenting
• foster parenting

Kids Definition

parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ 

ˈper-

: the raising of a child by its parents

Medical Definition

parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ, ˈper- 

: the raising of a child by its parents