parenting

1 of 2

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈper-ən-tiŋ 

1

: the raising of a child by its parents

2

: the act or process of becoming a parent

3

: the taking care of someone in the manner of a parent

parenting

2 of 2

present participle of parent entry 2

Synonyms of parenting

Noun

• parenthood
• raising
• maternity
• mothering

Examples of parenting in a Sentence

Noun

They share the responsibilities of parenting.

as the big day approaches, the expectant couple are starting to get worried about their fitness for parenting

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Boldly directed by Austrian filmmaker Marie Kreutzer, the movie shows a family imploding after criminal accusations are made — ones that cut to the heart of parenting. — Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

Family courts do not decide parenting issues based on political views. — Rebecca L. Palmer, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2026

And here is an example that seemed to say AI can be used for something at the emotional core of parenting. — Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 27 Oct. 2026

Many of the strategies used in gentle parenting are very effective for helping a child manage their emotions and behaviors and build resilience and emotional intelligence. — Alex Vance, Parents, 25 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing parenting

• attachment parenting
• foster parenting

Kids Definition

parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ 

ˈper-

: the raising of a child by its parents

Medical Definition

parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ, ˈper- 

: the raising of a child by its parents