midwifery

noun

mid·​wife·​ry ˌmid-ˈwi-f(ə-)rē  -ˈwī- 

ˈmid-ˌwī-

1

: the art or act of assisting at childbirth

also : obstetrics

2

: the art, act, or process of producing, bringing forth, or bringing about

Examples of midwifery in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Gonzalez cannot practice midwifery unless the emergency order is lifted following a hearing or overturned by a court. —Dante Motley, Austin American Statesman, 13 Mar. 2026

Today, 38 states don’t allow licenses for certified midwives, who have master’s degrees in midwifery. —Aria Bendix, NBC news, 26 Feb. 2026

In addition to an advanced degree, CNMs must complete an accredited midwifery education program and pass a national certification exam. —Metro Creative Services, Boston Herald, 15 Feb. 2026

Dozens of people gathered on Tuesday to protest a possible change coming to Rancho Springs Hospital in Murrieta, where officials are considering ending their midwifery program. —Joy Benedict, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for midwifery

• housewifery

Kids Definition

midwifery

noun

mid·​wife·​ry ˌmid-ˈwif-(ə-)rē  -ˈwīf- 

ˈmid-ˌwīf-

: the art or act of assisting at childbirth

also : obstetrics

Medical Definition

midwifery

noun

mid·​wife·​ry ˌmid-ˈwif-(ə-)rē  -ˈwīf-; ˈmid-ˌwīf- 

plural midwiferies

: the art or act of assisting at childbirth

also : obstetrics see nurse-midwifery