stepparent

noun

step·​par·​ent ˈstep-ˌper-ənt How to pronounce stepparent (audio)
Synonyms of stepparentnext
: a person who is a stepmother or stepfather

Examples of stepparent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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These people could include biological parents, stepparents, adoptive parents or other adults serving in those roles. Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 20 June 2026 After getting together, the pair welcomed three children — King, Major and Heiress — while also assuming the role of stepparents to the older children. Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 11 May 2026 Can the child celebrate with stepparents? Rebecca L. Palmer, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2026 Petito’s parents and stepparents —Nichole and Jim Schmidt, and Joseph and Tara Petito— will serve as the keynote speakers for the Faces of Courage 2026 event at 5:30 p.m. April 30 at the downtown Boise Centre. Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 5 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stepparent

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stepparent was in 1840

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Cite this Entry

“Stepparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stepparent. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

stepparent

noun
step·​par·​ent ˈstep-ˌpar-ənt How to pronounce stepparent (audio)
-ˌper-
: a person who is a stepmother or stepfather

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