childbirth

noun

child·​birth ˈchī(-ə)l(d)-ˌbərth How to pronounce childbirth (audio)
Synonyms of childbirthnext
: the act or process of giving birth to a baby : parturition

Examples of childbirth in a Sentence

women who choose to undergo childbirth without the use of anesthetics and other drugs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The season six finale ended on the cliffhanger that Jamie and Claire's daughter, Faith, may not have died after childbirth and in fact may have become a mother of her own, giving birth to daughters Jane and Fanny. Jessica Radloff, Glamour, 1 Mar. 2026 In Illinois, disputes over childbirth decisions have surfaced before. Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026 Martin has traditionally reserved his own name for projects outside the dub-dancehall continuum of the Bug, like the conceptual Sirens, a journal of childbirth as baptism by fire, and the abyssal Black, a tribute to Amy Winehouse. Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 27 Feb. 2026 Professionals who receive specific postpartum massage training might be trained in childbirth recovery, hormonal changes, abdominal and scar tissues healing, postpartum emotional shifts, and nervous system regulation, Bessard describes. ​wendy Wisner, Parents, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for childbirth

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of childbirth was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Childbirth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/childbirth. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

childbirth

noun
child·​birth ˈchīl(d)-ˌbərth How to pronounce childbirth (audio)
: the act or process of giving birth to children

called also parturition

Medical Definition

childbirth

noun
child·​birth ˈchīl(d)-ˌbərth How to pronounce childbirth (audio)
: the act or process of giving birth to a baby : parturition

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