parenthood

noun

par·​ent·​hood ˈper-ənt-ˌhu̇d 

: the state of being a parent

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

Synonyms of parenthood

• parenting

Examples of parenthood in a Sentence

parenthood is a difficult task requiring great commitment

Recent Examples on the Web

The end result is that, as everyone settles on one side of the parenthood fence or the other, many pick the side with people a lot like themselves. — Olga Khazan, The Atlantic, 20 Aug. 2026

Bennett is no stranger to digging into up the ups and downs of parenthood. — Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026

The new dad appeared on Good Morning America shortly after his son was born to gush about the first few months of parenthood. — Emma Banks, InStyle, 19 Aug. 2026

There are also feelings of nervousness and anxiety at the sudden responsibility of new parenthood. — Andrew D. Racine, STAT, 14 Aug. 2026

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