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

• 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

The letter writer had expressed her displeasure to her son about their parenting in this regard, but the son didn’t change. —R. Eric Thomas, Mercury News, 23 Oct. 2025

But this phase — of parenting and of childhood — is not forever. —R. Eric Thomas, Denver Post, 23 Oct. 2025

Whatever happens, Goelman urges parents not to let one challenging online incident define your teen or your parenting journey. —​wendy Wisner, Parents, 22 Oct. 2025

Karson said managerial roles are ideal for parents, since parenting is managing your family. —Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 22 Oct. 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