parenting

noun

par·​ent·​ing ˈper-ən-tiŋ How to pronounce parenting (audio)
Synonyms of parentingnext
1
: the raising of a child by its parents
2
: the act or process of becoming a parent
3
: the taking care of someone in the manner of a parent

Synonyms of parenting

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Examples of parenting in a Sentence

They share the responsibilities of parenting. as the big day approaches, the expectant couple are starting to get worried about their fitness for parenting
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For couples, there are disputes about money, chores and parenting practices. — Deborah Mower, The Conversation, 2 July 2026 A week later, the would-be Bachelorette star had her parenting time increased from eight to 12 hours a week. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 1 July 2026 By Jones is a writer with a strong focus on health, parenting, disability, and feminism. — Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 3 July 2026 Part of parenting is preparing your kids to take responsibility for their own financial well-being. — Jill Schlesinger, Mercury News, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for parenting

Word History

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of parenting was in 1918

Phrases Containing parenting

Browse Nearby Words

parenticide
parenting
parent-in-law
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Cite this Entry

“Parenting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/parenting. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

parenting

noun
par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ How to pronounce parenting (audio)
ˈper-
: the raising of a child by its parents

Medical Definition

parenting

noun
par·​ent·​ing ˈpar-ənt-iŋ, ˈper- How to pronounce parenting (audio)
: the raising of a child by its parents

More from Merriam-Webster on parenting

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about parenting

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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