Surrogate Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈsɜːrəɡeɪt/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A person or thing that takes the place of another person or thing, especially one that gives birth to a child on behalf of another woman or provides a service or function in place of another.

Examples

• The company hired a surrogate to attend the conference on behalf of the CEO.
• The woman acted as a surrogate mother for her sister, who was unable to conceive.

Synonyms

• Substitute
• Proxy
• Agent

Antonyms

• Original
• Real
• Actual

Additional Information

In the context of healthcare, a surrogate mother is a woman who agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another woman or couple who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. Surrogacy can be a complex and emotionally challenging process, requiring careful consideration and planning by all parties involved.

In a broader sense, a surrogate can refer to anything that takes the place of another thing, such as a surrogate key in a database or a surrogate marker in medicine. The concept of surrogacy has also been explored in philosophy and psychology, where it can refer to the idea of one thing standing in for another, often as a substitute or proxy.

The use of surrogates has become increasingly common in recent years, as advances in technology and changes in social attitudes have made it more acceptable and accessible. However, the practice of surrogacy remains regulated and monitored by laws and regulations, which vary from country to country.

Eymology

The word “surrogate” comes from the Latin “surrogare”, meaning “to substitute” or “to put in place of”. The term has been used in English since the 16th century, initially in the context of law and philosophy.

Usage Notes

When referring to a person or thing that takes the place of another, use “surrogate” in the sense of a substitute or proxy. In the context of healthcare, use “surrogate mother” or “gestational carrier” to refer to a woman who carries a pregnancy for another woman or couple.

Cultural References

The concept of surrogacy has been explored in various forms of media, including films like “The Handmaiden’s Tale” and “Baby Mama”, as well as in literature and art. Surrogacy has also been a topic of public debate and discussion, particularly in relation to reproductive rights and family law.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Surrogate mother
• Surrogate father
• Surrogate parent

Related Words or Phrases

• Substitute
• Proxy
• Agent
• Representative

Collocations

• Surrogate motherhood
• Surrogate parenting
• Surrogate care
• Surrogate support

Frequency of Use

The word “surrogate” is moderately common, particularly in formal and technical contexts such as law, medicine, and philosophy. Its usage has increased in recent years due to the growing awareness and acceptance of surrogacy as a reproductive option.

Common Misspellings

• Surrogate
• Surrougate
• Surragate
• Surrogit