English Reference

Word

midwives

Phoneticsmid·wives

US/ˈmɪdˌwaɪvz/

UK/mˈɪdwaɪvz/

Definition

n. trained health professionals who help women during pregnancy, labor, and the first few weeks after birth. They focus on keeping the mother and baby healthy and safe.

n. health professionals specifically trained to assist women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Plural form of 'midwife'.

Examples

“The midwives are very supportive during the birth.”

“Many expectant mothers choose to work with midwives because they prefer a more personalized, holistic approach to childbirth.”

“The hospital employs a dedicated team of midwives who collaborate with obstetricians to ensure that both low-risk and high-risk deliveries receive appropriate care.”

Examples

simple

“The midwives are very supportive during the birth.”

contextual

“Many expectant mothers choose to work with midwives because they prefer a more personalized, holistic approach to childbirth.”

complex

“The hospital employs a dedicated team of midwives who collaborate with obstetricians to ensure that both low-risk and high-risk deliveries receive appropriate care.”

Usage

The plural form of 'midwife'; takes a plural verb and can be used with 'the' or a number.

Real-World Examples

“In many countries, more than half of newly qualified nurses, doctors and midwives are unable to find work shortly after completing their training.”
UN News · 26 Aug 2026
“An RCM colleague described Sally’s “passion … to make things better for midwives – but also wanting improvement for mothers”.”
The Guardian · 28 Aug 2026

This entry

Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency
Occasional
Updated

Scan code

englishreference.com/q/midwives

English Reference