Definition

The role or responsibilities of a person who is married to someone with children from a previous relationship.

Example

Stepparenting can be challenging, but it can also be very rewarding.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the challenges of stepparenting?

Yeah, it can be really complicated, especially when blending families.

I can only imagine how much patience it requires in stepparenting.

Definitely! Communication is key to making it work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stepparenting is formed from "step-" (from Old English "stæf", meaning a step or degree of relationship) and "parenting" (from "parent" which comes from Latin "parens", meaning to bring forth or produce). The term refers to the act of raising or caring for a child who is not biologically one's own, but is related through marriage or partnership.

Memory Tip

Think of 'step' as a degree of relationship and 'parenting' as the act of raising a child — stepparenting means raising a child who is a 'step' away from being your own.

Visually Confused Words