raising

The word “raising” means the act of bringing up and caring for a child. In plain terms, the act of lifting something, bringing up a child, or gathering money or support.

“Raising” is pronounced RAY-zihng (/ˈɹeɪzɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “raising” used in a sentence: “Raising three kids on one income wasn't easy.”

“Raising” is a noun.

The word “raising” comes from Middle English. The "-ing" form of "raise", from Middle English reysynge.

“Raising” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Raising” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of bringing up and caring for a child.

Both mean bringing up and caring for a child until maturity, and they overlap almost entirely. Raising is the everyday term, especially in American English. Rearing sounds more formal or old-fashioned, is common in British English, and applies readily to animals as well as children.

Raising a child covers meeting physical needs — food, shelter, safety — alongside emotional support, guidance, education, and discipline. It means nurturing a child's development over many years, teaching values and skills, and gradually preparing them for independent adult life. It is a long-term, hands-on responsibility.

As a noun for upbringing, raising centres on children, but the verb raise stretches much further — you can raise animals, crops, money, a question, or your hand. In the childcare sense, though, raising specifically means the nurturing and rearing of a young person over time.