Mother: meaning, definitions and examples

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mother

[ˈmʌðər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

relationship

A woman in relation to her child or children.

Synonyms

mama, mom, mum, parent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mother	Formal situations or when referring to the role of a parent in general. My mother is a doctor. Motherhood is a challenging journey.
mom	Casual and everyday conversation, commonly used in American English. Hey Mom, what's for dinner? My mom always supports me.
mum	Casual and everyday conversation, commonly used in British English. I need to ask my mum about the party. Mum, can you help me with my homework?
mama	Informal or affectionate situations, often used by young children. Mama, can I have some cookies? I love my mama so much.
parent	General term that can refer to either the mother or father, used in formal or legal contexts. Each parent has responsibilities towards their children. Parents should attend the school meeting.

Examples of usage

She is a loving mother to her two children.
My mother always supports me no matter what.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

origin

A female parent.

Synonyms

matriarch, mom, mum, parent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mother	The word is formal and used in general or respectful contexts to refer to a female parent. She is a wonderful mother. My mother taught me a lot about life.
parent	A gender-neutral term that refers to either the mother or the father in a formal or general context. Both parents attended the meeting. Being a parent is a full-time job.
matriarch	Often used in a more formal or anthropological context to refer to a woman who is the head of a family or tribe. The matriarch of the family decides all important matters. She became the matriarch after her mother passed away.
mom	A casual and affectionate term commonly used in American English. My mom makes the best apple pie. I need to call my mom.
mum	A casual and affectionate term commonly used in British English. Have you seen my mum? My mum is a fantastic cook.

Examples of usage

She became a mother for the first time at the age of 30.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

nature

A woman who gives birth to a child.

Synonyms

mama, mom, mum, parent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mother	This is a formal word and is commonly used in writing or speech when you want to show respect. It can be used in both personal and formal contexts. My mother taught me how to read. She is a wonderful mother.
parent	This is a general, formal term that refers to either a mother or a father. It is often used when discussing parental roles, responsibilities, or legal terms. Each parent should spend quality time with their children. The school requires a signature from a parent.
mum	This is the British English equivalent of 'mom.' It is informal and used in everyday conversation in the UK. I called my mum to tell her the good news. Mum, what’s for dinner?
mama	This word is informal and often used by young children when addressing or talking about their mom. It shows a sense of affection and intimacy. Mama, can you help me with my homework? I love my mama.
mom	This is an informal and common way to refer to one’s mother in American English. It is used in everyday conversation. I’m going shopping with my mom. Thanks, Mom, for the great birthday gift!

Examples of usage

The mother of three children, she is a busy woman.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'mother' comes from the Old English 'modor', which has roots in many languages, connecting the idea of nurturing and caring.
In Latin, 'mater' carries the same meaning as 'mother', showing how different cultures have similar concepts of family.
In ancient times, the term was often associated with goddesses, representing fertility and the earth.

Cultural Significance

Many cultures celebrate 'Mother's Day' to honor mothers with gifts, flowers, and special meals.
In some societies, the role of a mother is not limited to biological ties, but can include grandmothers, aunts, and even close family friends.
Famous literary works often feature mothers as symbols of love, sacrifice, and wisdom, influencing characters and stories.

Psychology

Research has shown that a mother's love can significantly influence a child's emotional development and resilience.
The 'attachment theory' highlights how early relationships with mothers can affect future relationships and mental health.
Mothers often play a key role in shaping a child's moral values and social behaviors.

Science

Studies suggest that maternal care can impact a child's brain development, leading to better cognitive functions.
The bond between a mother and child releases hormones like oxytocin, which is linked to feelings of trust and attachment.
A mother's health during pregnancy is vital; optimal nutrition and care contribute to a child's physical and emotional wellbeing.

Popular Culture

Movies often portray mothers as caregivers, with powerful stories celebrating their sacrifices and love.
Songs and poems about mothers express deep affection and gratitude, showing their importance in our lives.
Animated films frequently feature mother figures as central characters, highlighting their nurturing traits.

Translations

Translations of the word "mother" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mãe

🇮🇳 माँ

🇩🇪 Mutter

🇮🇩 ibu

🇺🇦 мати

🇵🇱 matka

🇯🇵 母 (はは)

🇫🇷 mère

🇪🇸 madre

🇹🇷 anne

🇰🇷 어머니 (eomeoni)

🇸🇦 أم (umm)

🇨🇿 matka

🇸🇰 matka

🇨🇳 母亲 (mǔqīn)

🇸🇮 mati

🇮🇸 móðir

🇰🇿 ана

🇬🇪 დედა (deda)

🇦🇿 ana

🇲🇽 madre

Word Frequency Rank

With position #478, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.

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475 began
476 activities
477 lines
478 mother
479 carried
480 manner
481 points
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