Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

couvade

noun

/kuːˈvɑːd/

Definition

A custom where a father goes through certain rituals or experiences similar to those of his pregnant partner.

Examples

During the couvade, he experienced cravings and mood swings just like his partner.
In some cultures, the father participates in couvade rituals to express solidarity with the mother.

Meaning

Couvade often refers to the practice where a male partner assumes pregnancy-like symptoms or engages in behaviors that mimic pregnancy, reflecting emotional support for the expectant mother.