motherhood
Americannoun
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the state of being a mother; maternity.
-
the qualities or spirit of a mother.
-
mothers collectively.
adjective
noun
-
the state of being a mother
-
the qualities characteristic of a mother
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
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Just a few years later, she started a family and had to balance her responsibilities as a performer and ballet instructor with those of motherhood, ultimately returning to the U.S.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 29, 2026
In 2024, Fifa made changes to further protect female footballers and coaches during and after pregnancy, as well as in non-biological motherhood such as adoption.
From BBC • Jun. 24, 2026
A lot of elements of being pregnant while being on tour have been quite challenging, but that does not include Natalie’s relationship to motherhood.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026
A big story heading into the weekend was the rise of Alison Lee, who held the lead after Friday and is balancing motherhood with her chase for her first major championship.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026
Married life and motherhood were an adjustment for Winnie.
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
