English Reference
Noun

parenthood

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈpɛɹəntˌhʊd/ UK /pˈeəɹənthˌʊd/ par·ent·hood UK spelling parenthoods

n.the state or period of being a mother or father. It describes the role and responsibilities of raising a child.

n.the state, condition, or role of being a parent. Refers to both the biological relationship and the social practice of child-rearing.


SIMPLE

Parenthood changed their lives in many ways.

CONTEXTUAL

The local community center offers several workshops to help young couples prepare for the challenges of parenthood.

COMPLEX

Modern sociological studies often examine how the transition to parenthood affects the division of domestic labor and the career trajectories of both partners in a household.

Usage

Typically used without an article when referring to the state in general.

But that’s one welcome side-effect of parenthood: becoming 100% unembarrassable.

The Guardian· 25 Aug 2026

From parent + -hood.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated