motherhouse

noun

moth·​er·​house ˈmə-t͟hər-ˌhau̇s How to pronounce motherhouse (audio)
1
: the convent in which the superior of a religious community resides
2
: the original convent of a religious community

Examples of motherhouse in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The motherhouse is still located there today. — Sharon Coolidge, The Enquirer, 21 July 2021 Villa Maria-Notch Cliff motherhouse in Glen Arm, which was necessary because the order’s numbers had dwindled. — Baltimore Sun, 25 Aug. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of motherhouse was in 1661

Rhymes for motherhouse

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Cite this Entry

“Motherhouse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motherhouse. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

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