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Maternity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maternity

[mษ™หˆtษœหrnษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

leave

The period of time when a woman is pregnant and gives birth to a baby.

Synonyms

motherhood, parenthood, pregnancy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maternity

Used when referring to the state of being a mother, often associated with leave from work, or facilities and care during childbirth.

  • She is on maternity leave for three months.
  • The hospital has excellent maternity facilities.
pregnancy

Specifically refers to the period during which a woman carries a developing fetus, from conception to birth.

  • She announced her pregnancy to her family.
  • Pregnancy can be a joyful yet challenging time.
motherhood

Refers to the state or experience of being a mother, encompassing the broader emotional and social aspects.

  • Motherhood has changed her life completely.
  • She embraces the challenges and joys of motherhood.
parenthood

Refers to the state of being a parent, including both mothers and fathers. It is a more gender-neutral term than motherhood.

  • Parenthood comes with a lot of responsibilities.
  • They are both excited and nervous about stepping into parenthood.

Examples of usage

  • She is on maternity leave.
  • I will take maternity leave next month.
Context #2 | Noun

wardrobe

Clothing designed for pregnant women.

Synonyms

maternity wear, pregnancy clothes.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
maternity

Used to refer to the state or period of being pregnant and having a baby.

  • She is on maternity leave from her job.
  • The hospital has a well-equipped maternity ward.
pregnancy clothes

Similar to 'maternity wear', used to refer to clothing for pregnant women. It can be a more informal term.

  • I need to buy some pregnancy clothes soon.
  • There are many options for pregnancy clothes available online.
maternity wear

Refers specifically to clothing designed for pregnant women to ensure comfort and fit during pregnancy.

  • She went shopping for maternity wear as her regular clothes no longer fit.
  • The store has a wide range of stylish maternity wear.

Examples of usage

  • She bought some maternity clothes.
  • Her maternity wardrobe is stylish.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • Different cultures have unique maternity rituals, such as baby showers in Western societies and 'seclusion' practices in various Indigenous cultures.
  • In some societies, maternity care is not only the responsibility of the mother but often involves extended family and community support.
  • Maternity leave policies vary significantly worldwide, impacting how women balance work and family life.

Healthcare

  • Maternity healthcare encompasses prenatal, childbirth, and postnatal care, crucial for the health of both mother and baby.
  • The World Health Organization emphasizes access to maternity care as a fundamental human right.
  • Advancements in maternity care have significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates over the decades.

Psychology

  • Becoming a mother can trigger a range of emotions, including joy and anxiety, highlighting the psychological aspects of maternity.
  • Postpartum depression affects many new mothers, emphasizing the need for mental health support during maternity.
  • Studies show that early bonding with a baby can enhance the emotional health of both the mother and child.

Media Representation

  • Maternity is often portrayed in films and literature, highlighting its complexity and the challenges faced by mothers.
  • Television shows frequently discuss topics around maternity leave, parenting, and the balance of personal and work life.
  • Social media has become a platform for mothers to share their maternity experiences, fostering community and support.

Origin of 'maternity'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'maternity' comes from the Latin 'maternitas', meaning motherhood.
  • Related terms include 'mater' (mother) and 'paternity' (fatherhood), highlighting the contrast in parental roles.
  • The concept has evolved over centuries to incorporate social support systems for mothers.

The word 'maternity' originated in the late Middle English period, from the Old French word 'maternite', which came from the Latin word 'maternitas'. It has been used to refer to the state of being a mother or the period of being pregnant since the 15th century. The concept of maternity has evolved over time, reflecting changing societal norms and attitudes towards motherhood and pregnancy.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,629, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.