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

For Zimmerer, who coached his daughter, Remington Zimmerer, to a second straight state title in the Class 5A 120-pound bracket, the opportunity to have a front-row seat to seeing Remington evolve into one of Colorado’s best female wrestlers is worth its weight in parenting gold. —Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 22 Feb. 2026

Recognizing the red flags of lawnmower parenting is a crucial step toward promoting a more balanced way of supporting your child. —Jazmin Towe, Parents, 22 Feb. 2026

By Jones is a writer with a strong focus on health, parenting, disability, and feminism. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 20 Feb. 2026

Enriching Partnerships for Early Learning, $15,000 for its early childhood parenting program. —Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026

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