Mother Meaning and Definition
Mother
Pronunciation
/ˈmʌðər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A woman who gives birth to a child or adopts a child, or a person who nurtures and cares for their child or children.
Examples
- A mother’s love is immeasurable.
- Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May.
Synonyms
- Parent
- Momma
Antonyms
- Father
- Foster Caregiver
Etymology
The word “mother” comes from Old English “mōdor”, which is derived from Proto-Germanic “mōdiz” and proto-Indo-European “*méh2tēr”.
Usage Notes
In modern English, the term “mother” can be used to refer to a biological or adoptive parent, or a person who takes on a parental role, such as a foster caregiver.
Cultural References
The word “mother” has been used in many cultural references, including literature, film, and music. For example, the song “Mother” by John Lennon is a tribute to his mother.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Mother’s love” is often used to describe unconditional love
- “Mother knows best” is a common phrase
Related Words or Phrases
- Parent
- Father
- Adoptive Parent
Collocations
- Mother and child
- Mother’s day
- Mother’s love
Frequency of Use
The word “mother” is commonly used in many contexts, including family relationships, healthcare, and education.
Common Misspellings
- Motber
- Motherly