parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈper-ən-tiŋ How to pronounce parenting (audio)
Synonyms of parentingnext
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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Flowers' clip served as a true reminder that parenting comes with its fair share of surprises. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2024 Mandy Moore is highlighting a relatable parenting moment. —Escher Walcott, People.com, 24 Nov. 2024 Case managers at Sacred Heart counsel women on things like parenting and budgeting skills. —Aldo Svaldi, The Denver Post, 24 Nov. 2024 People seeking help with substance use, parenting, or relationships are matched with people with no special qualifications other than having lived through something similar. —Jamie Ducharme, TIME, 22 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for parenting 

Word History

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of parenting was in 1918

Phrases Containing parenting

Dictionary Entries Near parenting

parenticide

parenting

parent-in-law

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Parenting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parenting. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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Kids Definition

parenting

noun
par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ How to pronounce parenting (audio)
ˈper-
: the raising of a child by its parents

Medical Definition

parenting

noun
par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ, ˈper- How to pronounce parenting (audio)
: the raising of a child by its parents

More from Merriam-Webster on parenting

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about parenting

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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