ENGLISH
REFERENCE

motherhood

n. uncountable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈməðɝˌhʊd// UK //mˈʌðəhˌʊd// moth·er·hood

n. the state or experience of being a mother. It describes the life and feelings of a woman who is raising a child.

n. the state or condition of being a mother; the qualities or spirit associated with a mother.


SIMPLE

She is enjoying the challenges and joys of motherhood.

CONTEXTUAL

Many women find that motherhood completely changes their perspective on work-life balance and long-term priorities.

COMPLEX

Societal expectations often place an immense burden on women to achieve a perceived perfection in motherhood, frequently ignoring the systemic lack of support for new parents.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English moderhode, moderhede, equivalent to mother + -hood.

Usage

Typically used as an uncountable abstract noun; occasionally used as a collective noun for mothers as a group.

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