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

• 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

In that case, the woman valued her own freedom and did not want to take on the sacrifices required for parenting—especially considering her family's history of physical and mental disabilities. —Matthew Impelli, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025

But like any other gray area in parenting, there is more to consider than just your child’s age. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 11 Sep. 2025

Proud mom Kardashian, 41, often shares sweet parenting moments via her social media accounts. —Clare Fisher, PEOPLE, 11 Sep. 2025

For these men, the idea of another 40-something woman still deeply entrenched in parenting may not be appealing. —Linsey Hughes, Flow Space, 10 Sep. 2025

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