parenting

American  

[pair-uhn-ting, par-] / ˈpɛər ən tɪŋ, ˈpær- /

noun

1. the rearing of children.

   The schedule allows her very little time for parenting.

2. the methods, techniques, etc., used or required in the rearing of children.

   a course in parenting.

3. the state of being a parent; parenthood.

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adjective

1. of or concerned with the rearing of children.

   good parenting skills.

parenting British  

/ ˈpɛərəntɪŋ /

noun

1. the care and upbringing of a child

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Usage

Parenting has come to be favored over parenthood, rearing, and bringing up in sociological and educational literature and in popular writing.

Etymology

Origin of parenting

First recorded in 1955–60; parent + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

parenting

In the following years, John and Laura had three children, with Laura handling much of the parenting, John Overdeck testified.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 31, 2026

And his idea is this: Have tech companies use A.I. to spur interactions among conspiracy theorists, pro-science activists, and the middle-ground groups, such as the parenting communities.

From Slate ● Aug. 26, 2026

When pupils meet the criteria, project workers based at the school approach families to offer help in the form mediation, parenting support and financial guidance, among other things.

From BBC ● Aug. 23, 2026

Dating, marriage, parenting and divorce; illness, scandal and tragic loss are all universal experiences.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2026

As much as their parenting philosophy was "We trust you," it was also "You can trust us."

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi