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

Jenn Sinrich is a journalist, editor, and content strategist with more than a decade of experience creating high-performing lifestyle, travel, health, and parenting content for top-tier media brands. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 July 2026

Gisele’s Second Marriage While Brady has remained focused on football broadcasting, business ventures, and co-parenting since the divorce, Bündchen has embraced a new chapter. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 21 July 2026

Tech has shifted from a luxury to a survival tool, with 56% of parents surveyed using two or three parenting apps or devices to manage cognitive overload. — Christine Michel Carter, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

One source shared with PEOPLE that Taylor spent the weekend at home, enjoying her parenting time with Ever. — Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 20 July 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