B2nounworkhealth
US/məˈtɜːr.nə.tiː/
UK/məˈtɜː.nə.ti/
the time before and after a baby is born, especially in connection with work or hospital care
In context
She returned to work three months after her maternity leave ended.
The company offers generous maternity pay to all full-time employees.
The hospital has a new maternity ward with private rooms.
Words that go with maternity
noun + noun
- maternity leaveEmployees are entitled to six months of maternity leave.
- maternity payMaternity pay is covered by the state in some countries.
- maternity wardVisitors are not allowed in the maternity ward after nine.
- maternity hospitalShe gave birth at the city maternity hospital.
- maternity benefitsThe law protects maternity benefits for part-time workers.
- maternity clothesShe bought some maternity clothes in her sixth month.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
pregnant leaveCorrect: maternity leave