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

Becerra quickly consolidated support from elected officials including Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas and influential groups like Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California and the California Medical Assn.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026

I went to Planned Parenthood and was told the abortion pill was “safe and effective.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

Her family asks that any donations in her memory be made to “her favorite charity,” Planned Parenthood.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

While there is no lack of competition in California and Nevada for these kinds of offerings, Planned Parenthood Mar Monte leaders said they have an advantage.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

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

From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray