parenting

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

Synonyms of parenting

• parenthood
• raising
• maternity
• mothering

Examples of parenting in a Sentence

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

In the comments, some pointed out that this is just going to be a parenting difference for OP and his wife. —Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 18 Dec. 2025

The famous influencer talks about her online community and why she's left type A parenting behind. —Anna Halkidis, Parents, 17 Dec. 2025

Getting to day care or school pickup on time is an essential part of the parenting gig; long commutes heighten the risk of something, whether traffic or a train delay, causing a holdup. —Stephanie H. Murray, The Atlantic, 16 Dec. 2025

Pinterest Predicts has released its 2026 trend report, which includes upcoming trends in fashion, lifestyle, beauty, parenting, and more. —Jamie Weissman, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

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