Meaning & Definition of word "Stepmother"

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    Stepmother

    /ˈstɛpˌmʌðər/

    noun:

    • 1. A woman who is married to one's father after the death or divorce of one's biological mother.
      • Example: After his father remarried, he had to adjust to living with his new stepmother.
    • 2. A woman who acts as a mother figure but is not a biological mother.
      • Example: Her stepmother was very kind and treated her like her own daughter.
    • 3. In folklore, a stepmother often portrays a negative character.
      • Example: The evil stepmother in the story was known for her jealousy and cruelty.

    Etymology

    The word 'stepmother' comes from 'step' meaning 'by marriage' and 'mother', thus meaning 'mother by marriage'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    step-family:

    A family that includes members from previous relationships.

    step-sibling:

    A sibling who is the child of one's step-parent.

    Related Words

    stepfather:

    The husband of one's mother after the divorce from one's biological father.

    step-child:

    A child of one's spouse from a previous relationship.

    Slang Meanings of stepmother

    Meaning: Bonus mom

    Example Sentence: I love my bonus mom; she gives the best advice!

    Meaning: Steppie

    Example Sentence: My steppie always makes my favorite meals.