single-mother
UK[ˈsɪŋɡl̩ ˈmʌðə]US[ˈsɪŋɡl̩ ˈmʌðər]
n
A mother who raises a child or children without a partner.
Morpheme Breakdown
single
mother
single
alone
mother
female parent
Etymology
The compound term 'single-mother' is a modern descriptive formation, combining two distinct and ancient roots to describe a specific family structure. The word 'single' traces back to the Latin singulus, meaning "one, individual," which itself derives from the Proto-Indo-European root sem- meaning "one." 'Mother' has a deeply ancient lineage, stemming from the Proto-Indo-European méh₂tēr, a primary kinship term. The logic of the compound is transparently literal: it designates a mother who is alone or individual in her parental role, without the presence or support of a spouse or partner, reflecting a social reality rather than a metaphorical evolution.
Analysis
Structure: single (alone) + mother (female parent)
'Single' originates from Latin singulus (one, individual, separate). 'Mother' originates from Old English mōdor, from Proto-Germanic mōdēr, ultimately from Proto-Indo-European méh₂tēr.
Examples
She worked two jobs to support her family as a single-mother.
The community center offers support groups for single-mothers.
The film portrays the struggles and triumphs of a single-mother raising three children.