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

So Carol’s a contrast to Madeleine, and also just another look into the world of different kinds of families and parenthood. — Fiction Non Fiction, Literary Hub, 17 Sep. 2026

Gaga has spoken openly about her desire to begin her parenthood journey over the past several years. — Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 15 Sep. 2026

Raised in Idaho and rooted now in New York, Hunter mines the rural‑urban divide, religion, parenthood and finances to explore how ordinary people shoulder shame, struggle and a fragile sense of hope. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 9 Sep. 2026

One of the themes is parenthood and a way of conceiving motherhood and parental love as control and ambition that is projected onto one’s children. — Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 3 Sep. 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