Parent: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for a person who raises and cares for a child, regardless if they are the biological parent. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• As a parent, you must always prioritize your child's well-being.
• The school invited all parents to the annual meeting.

Used specifically to describe a male parent. This term can be used both formally and informally, and usually implies a biological relationship but can also apply to adoptive situations.

• My father taught me how to ride a bicycle.
• He is a loving and supportive father.

Used specifically to describe a female parent. Like 'father,' it implies a biological relationship but can also be used for adoptive situations. Suitable for both formal and informal use.

• Her mother baked a cake for her birthday.
• She is a very caring mother.

Specifically refers to someone who takes care of a child, elderly person, or someone with special needs, and may not be biologically related. Often used in professional or specialized contexts.

• The caregiver stayed with the elderly man all night.
• Being a caregiver for a disabled child can be very demanding.

This term is used to refer to a mother or father who has given birth to or raised a child. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and formal contexts.

• My parents are coming to visit this weekend.
• Being a parent is a huge responsibility.

This word refers to the point or place where something begins, arises, or is derived. It is used in scientific, historical, or technical contexts.

• The origin of the species is a topic of much debate.
• We need to understand the origin of the problem to solve it.

This term is used to refer to the place, person, or thing from which something comes or can be obtained. It is often used in research, information gathering, and resource contexts.

• Always verify the source of your information.
• The river is the primary source of water for the city.

This term is used to refer to a person from whom one is descended, typically someone more distant than a grandparent. It is often used in historical or genealogical contexts.

• My ancestors came from Eastern Europe.
• She traced her family tree and discovered her ancestors were nobles.

General term for the role of raising and caring for a child.

• She is an excellent parent to her children
• Being a parent is a challenging but rewarding task

Emphasizes bringing up a child through various stages of life, including education, moral development, and general upbringing.

• They raised their children with strong moral values
• It's a big responsibility to raise a family

Focuses on the emotional and developmental support given to a child or even to plants or projects. It implies a sense of fostering growth and development.

• They nurture their child's creativity with art classes
• A gardener must nurture the plants to see them thrive

Used when providing physical or emotional support to someone, typically a child or elderly person. Emphasizes the act of attending to someone's needs.

• He had to care for his aging mother
• They hired a nanny to care for their newborn