WordGarden.iomother
A1Pronunciation
UK
US
- /ˈməðər/
Meanings
Noun
a female parent
a title or form of address for a nun or other senior religious woman
a source or origin of something
Verb
to give birth to and become the mother of a child
to care for someone in a protective or overattentive way
Beyond the definition
The word "mother" means more than biology alone; it often brings to mind love, protection, and guidance. At its simplest, a mother is a female parent, but the term is also used for someone who gives steady care and helps raise a child. You can also see the idea in nature, such as a cat caring for her kittens, or in phrases like "Mother Earth."
You might call someone a "mother figure" if they give the same kind of comfort, support, and guidance as a parent. The word is often used with warmth and respect. In stories and art, mothers are often shown as strong, caring people at the center of family life.
"Mother" is a multifaceted term deeply rooted in biology, emotion, and societal roles. At its most basic, it refers to the female parent who bears and raises a child. However, the true essence of the word is defined by action: providing unconditional love, care, and guidance throughout a person's life.
The concept of "mother" is broad enough to include adoptive mothers, stepmothers, and foster mothers, and it can also describe someone who takes on a deeply caring, parent-like role. This shows that motherhood is often not only about genetics, but also about commitment and emotional connection. Across many cultures, mothers have long been seen as symbols of care, fertility, and creation, and many traditions honor mother goddesses who represent these ideas.
The term also appears frequently in metaphors. "Mother tongue" refers to one's native language, suggesting it is the foundational source of identity. "Mother Nature" is used to describe the natural world, implying that the earth itself provides for and nurtures all life. Furthermore, "mother" can function as a verb; to "mother" someone is to treat them with great care and protective concern.
The derivative adjective motherly describes someone who exhibits these characteristic caring qualities. Ultimately, "mother" is one of the most evocative words in the English language, representing a relationship built on sacrifice, unwavering support, and a bond that resonates across all cultures and generations.
Examples
- 1
Everyday family
My mother called to ask if I got home safely.
- 2
Becoming a parent
She became a mother at twenty-eight.
- 3
Family life
Lena is a mother of two, so her mornings are always busy.
- 4
Single parent
He was raised by a single mother.
- Phrasesingle mother
a mother raising a child without a partner
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Social pressure
Mothers often feel pressure to do everything perfectly.
- 6
Caregiver role
Her aunt was like a mother to her after the move.
- Patternlike a mother to + person
caring for someone in a motherly way
- 7
Formal title
Please call me by my first name; “Mother” sounds too formal.
- Usage
Mother as a title can sound formal; many people say Mom or Mum
- 8
First language
Spanish is her mother tongue, but she speaks English at work.
- Phrasemother tongue
the first language someone learned
- 9
Nature personified
We spent the afternoon hiking and enjoying Mother Nature.
- PhraseMother Nature
nature imagined as a caring female figure
- 10
Overprotective care
Stop mothering me; I can make my own decisions.
- Patternmother + person
care for someone in a very protective way
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- mothernounverb
Forms
- motherspluralnounverb
- mothering-ing formverbnoun
- motheredpast tenseverbnoun