motherhood

American  

[muhth-er-hood] / ˈmʌð ərˌhʊd /

noun

1. the state of being a mother; maternity.

2. the qualities or spirit of a mother.

3. mothers collectively.

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adjective

1. having or relating to an inherent worthiness, justness, or goodness that is obvious or unarguable.

   legislation pushed through on a motherhood basis.

motherhood British  

/ ˈmʌðəˌhʊd /

noun

1. the state of being a mother

2. the qualities characteristic of a mother

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Usage

What does motherhood mean? Motherhood is the state of being a mother. A person enters motherhood when they become a mother. 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. Motherhood is a gender-specific version of the term parenthood. Less commonly, motherhood can refer to all mothers collectively, as in You won’t find a better mom in all of motherhood. Example: People who have not experienced motherhood probably shouldn’t be so quick to criticize how moms parent their children.

Etymology

Origin of motherhood

First recorded in 1375–1425; from the late Middle English word moderhed. See mother ¹, -hood

Example Sentences

They focus on motherhood and love, with rounded forms cradling one another and calling to mind the work of Henry Moore.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

But a lot of times, the image of motherhood these influencers are hawking isn’t exactly the full story.

From Salon • May 10, 2026

The gathering, which takes place in the women’s homes, has endured through each phase of their lives — marriages, motherhood, even illness.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2026

In addition to classical music, this “Man Who Knew Too Much” has pop and a pop-star heroine, one juggling motherhood with a singing career.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

I had no interest in babies or the concept of motherhood.

From "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison

Related Words

• parenthood