parenthood

American  

[pair-uhnt-hood, par-] / ˈpɛər əntˌhʊd, ˈpær- /

noun

1. the state, position, or relation of a parent.

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Usage

What does parenthood mean? Parenthood is the state of being a parent. A person enters parenthood when they become a parent. This most commonly happens when their child is born, but it can also happen through adoption or by marrying or becoming a partner to someone with children. The terms motherhood and fatherhood are gender-specific versions of parenthood. The related noun parenting can mean the same thing as parenthood, but it more commonly refers to the process of raising children or the methods and techniques used to do so, as in I didn’t know anything about parenting before I entered parenthood. Example: People who have not experienced parenthood probably shouldn’t be so quick to criticize how other people parent their children.

Other Word Forms

• nonparenthood
  noun

Etymology

Origin of parenthood

First recorded in 1855–60; parent + -hood

Example Sentences

Nedelman has assembled the book club over the decades, inviting women from different parts of her life, including investment clubs and Planned Parenthood organizing along with high school classmates.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

Leaders said they hope that unconventional offerings such as Botox will generate enough revenue to subsidize the healthcare Planned Parenthood is best known for.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

It’s not yet known how much money the model will generate—but as the largest Planned Parenthood affiliate, Mar Monte leaders hope its revamped business plan could be a framework for others to follow.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

Jodi Hicks, chief executive officer of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, thanked legislators for their support and said the organization could not survive without support from the state.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

No. She’d volunteered at Planned Parenthood one summer.

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray