Parents: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term when referring to both a mother and a father collectively. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• My parents are coming to visit this weekend.
• Parents should attend the school meeting.

This term specifically refers to the female parent. It is commonly used in personal and formal contexts.

• My mother is an excellent cook.
• Mother's Day is celebrated in May.

This term specifically refers to the male parent. It can be used in personal conversations, family discussions, or formal documents.

• My father helped me with my homework.
• Father's Day is celebrated in June.

A guardian is a person who has the legal authority and duty to care for another person, often a child. This term is commonly used in legal contexts or when speaking about non-parental caretakers.

• After the accident, her uncle became her legal guardian.
• Guardians must provide a nurturing environment for their wards.

A caretaker is someone who looks after another person, often in a professional capacity or when the parents are unavailable. This term can imply a temporary or non-familial role.

• The caretaker feeds and bathes the elderly patients.
• While my parents were away, a caretaker took care of us.

Use when referring to one's mother and father or legal guardians.

• I live with my parents.
• My parents are coming to visit this weekend.

A more formal term for an ancestor, often used in scientific or academic contexts to describe the first person or animal in a biological line.

• The progenitor of this species lived millions of years ago.
• He is considered the progenitor of the modern computer.

Use when referring to someone from whom one is descended, typically more distant in the past than a grandparent.

• My ancestors came to this country over 200 years ago.
• She is researching her ancestors to learn more about her family history.

A more formal or literary word for ancestor, often used in historical or genealogical contexts.

• Our forebears fought bravely in the war.
• The traditions of our forebears are still alive today.

Used to refer to the mother and father of a child.

• My parents are coming to visit this weekend.
• Her parents are very supportive of her career.

Used to describe the act of bringing up a child, including providing for their physical, emotional, and educational needs.

• They worked hard to raise their children well.
• She is raising three kids on her own.

Used to describe the act of looking after and providing for someone’s needs, typically in a compassionate or nurturing way. Can be used in various contexts, including childcare, eldercare, and even pet care.

• She takes time off work to care for her aging mother.
• They care for their children by providing them with a loving home.

Focuses on the emotional and developmental support provided to someone, often used in a context where growth and development are emphasized.

• Teachers play a vital role in nurturing young minds.
• He believes in nurturing his talents through continuous learning.