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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

Add 3,700 must-know words to your vocabulary.

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maternity

IPA:

How to pronounce maternity (audio)

Dictionary definition of maternity

The state of being a mother, or the period of time during which a woman is pregnant and gives birth to a child.
"The hospital's maternity ward is always busy with new moms and babies."

Detailed meaning of maternity

It can also refer to the relationship between a mother and her child, or the conditions and provisions that support a mother and her child. Maternity leave is a period of time, often offered by employers, during which a woman can take off work to give birth and care for her child without losing her job or seniority. Maternity benefits are also offered by some employers which include medical coverage, financial support and other benefits that help the mother during her pregnancy and after the birth of her child. In medicine, maternity care refers to the healthcare provided to women during pregnancy, childbirth and the post-partum period. Maternity can also be used as an adjective, as in "maternity clothes" which are clothing specifically designed for pregnant women. The term "maternity" encompasses all aspects of motherhood and the care and support provided to mothers and their children.

Example sentences containing maternity

1. The maternity ward was filled with excited new parents and their newborn babies.
2. She purchased a beautiful maternity dress to accommodate her growing belly.
3. The company offers generous maternity leave for its employees.
4. The maternity clinic provided excellent prenatal care to expectant mothers.
5. The hospital's maternity unit was equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
6. Her maternity leave allowed her to spend precious time bonding with her newborn.

History and etymology of maternity

The noun 'maternity' has its origins in Latin, particularly from the word 'maternitas,' which is derived from 'mater,' meaning 'mother.' 'Maternity' signifies the state of being a mother or the period of time during which a woman is pregnant and gives birth to a child. The term's etymology beautifully reflects its essence, emphasizing the role and status of motherhood. 'Maternity' encompasses the profound experience of pregnancy, childbirth, and nurturing, highlighting the significance of this phase in a woman's life as she embraces the responsibilities and joys of motherhood.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun maternity:

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Further usage examples of maternity

1. The maternity clothing store had a wide range of fashionable options for pregnant women.
2. The hospital had a dedicated maternity wing for labor and delivery.
3. The maternity photographer captured beautiful moments of the expectant mother.
4. The maternity nurse provided support and guidance during the labor process.
5. She attended prenatal yoga classes to stay fit during her maternity period.
6. The maternity leave policy was a crucial factor in her decision to join the company.
7. The maternity ward was buzzing with the sounds of crying newborns and joyful parents.
8. She received a lovely maternity gift basket filled with baby essentials.
9. The hospital offered maternity tours to help expectant parents familiarize themselves with the facilities.
10. The maternity support belt provided much-needed relief for her back pain.
11. She attended a maternity fashion show showcasing the latest trends in pregnancy wear.
12. The maternity ward was adorned with colorful decorations to create a welcoming atmosphere.
13. The maternity care package included prenatal vitamins and informational brochures.
14. She joined a maternity support group to connect with other expectant mothers.
15. The company provides excellent maternity benefits for its female employees.
16. My sister is excited to start her maternity leave next month.
17. She is shopping for comfortable maternity clothes to wear during her pregnancy.
18. The organization advocates for better maternity healthcare for women around the world.
19. Her employer offers flexible work hours for maternity-related appointments and tasks.
20. The maternity clinic offers prenatal classes and support for expectant mothers.
21. The government has implemented several policies to improve maternity leave and childcare services.
22. She is concerned about the cost of maternity care and how it will impact her budget.
23. The maternity unit has state-of-the-art facilities and experienced medical staff.
24. She is considering hiring a maternity nurse to help her during the first few weeks with her baby.
25. The fashion industry has seen an increase in demand for sustainable and ethical maternity wear.

Help and Support, Occasions and Occurrences, Life Stages and Mortality

gestation,post-partum

antenatal,childbirth,delivery,motherhood,parenthood,pregnancy

motherhood, fatherhood, paternity, barrenness

eb68db_1fe52c173477468c989ab9952b50f499.mp3

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