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

These conversations often center on weight and appearance, parenting, politics and relationship status. — Joy Harden Bradford, AJC.com, 5 Nov. 2026

Poor behavior in many aspects of society today often reflect poor parenting of a child. — Jay Reddick, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Nov. 2026

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

Elsewhere in the interview, Kylie shared her thoughts on a parenting debate surrounding the usage of Halloween costumes after the holiday. — Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 29 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