childbearing
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈtʃaɪldˌbɛərɪŋ//
KK: /ˈtʃaɪldˌbɛrɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Relating to the process of having children, including pregnancy and childbirth.
Example
The childbearing years are often considered to be from the late teens to early thirties.
Conversation
I’ve been thinking a lot about childbearing lately.
Oh really? What brought that up?
I guess I’m just curious about the whole process and how it changes people.
It's definitely a big life event that can affect so many aspects of life.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
maternal
pregnant
reproductive
Antonyms
infertile
barren
sterile
noun
Definition
The process of having a baby or giving birth.
Example
Childbearing can be a challenging but rewarding experience for many families.
Conversation
I was reading an article about the challenges of childbearing lately.
Oh really? I've heard it can be quite tough for some people.
Yeah, it talked about the physical and emotional aspects of childbearing.
Root Explanation
Childbearing is formed from "child" (from Old English "cild", meaning a young human) and "bearing" (from Old English "beran", meaning to carry or give birth to). The term refers to the act of carrying or giving birth to a child.
Memory Tip
Think of 'carrying' ('bearing') a 'young human' ('child') — that's what childbearing means.
Visually Confused Words
clearing