ˈnɜːɹ.tʃəɹ ˈpɛəɹənt ˈpɛəɹənt ˈpɛəɹənt ˈpɛəɹənt an organism (plant or animal) from which younger ones are obtained look after a child until it is an adult raise a family bring up children a father or mother; one who begets or one who gives birth to or nurtures and raises a child; a relative who plays the role of guardian