surrogacy

noun

sur·​ro·​ga·​cy ˈsər-ə-gə-sē 

: the practice of serving as a surrogate mother

Examples of surrogacy in a Sentence

choosing between adoption and surrogacy

Recent Examples on the Web

Due to the nuances of Australia’s surrogacy laws, Shayna was initially recognized as the baby’s legal mother. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 1 Nov. 2026

The surrogacy case that his office intervened in was expected to be routine. — Romy Ellenbogen Herald, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2026

Even alternative pathways, such as adoption, surrogacy, or gamete or embryo donation, can cost a small fortune. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 26 Oct. 2026

One of the issues raised by the New Yorker story is that there are surrogacy agencies that connect parents and potential surrogates. — Ariana Aspuru, Vox, 14 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

surrogacy

noun

sur·​ro·​ga·​cy ˈsər-ə-gə-sē, ˈsə-rə- 

plural surrogacies

: the practice of serving as a surrogate mother

Legal Definition

surrogacy

noun

sur·​ro·​ga·​cy ˈsər-ə-gə-sē 

plural surrogacies

1

: the office of a surrogate

2

: the practice of serving as a surrogate mother