maternity leave

American  

noun

1. a leave of absence for an expectant or new mother for the birth and care of the baby.

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maternity leave British  

noun

1. a period of paid absence from work, in Britain currently six months, to which a woman is legally entitled during the months immediately before and after childbirth

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Etymology

Origin of maternity leave

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Teo was a good sleeper and she enjoyed the days spent caring for her baby son while on maternity leave.

From BBC

It includes ranking protection during pregnancy, postpartum support with a return to play and paid maternity leave.

From Barron's

Bencic said competing again at the highest level after maternity leave is something she "incredibly proud of".

From BBC

Jenni was married and on maternity leave after having her second child with Swan when he told her about his affair with Robyn.

From BBC

"It's always been my dream to come back after maternity leave to make the top 10. Always been my goal," she said.

From Barron's