noun
- a custom in some cultures where the father of a newborn child takes to bed and receives attention as if he had given birth
Usage: anthropological
Examples
- The anthropologist studied the couvade ritual practiced by the indigenous tribe.
- In some societies, couvade involves the father experiencing labor-like symptoms.
- The couvade tradition reflects the father’s symbolic participation in childbirth.
- Researchers have documented couvade practices in various cultures worldwide.
- The village elder explained the significance of their couvade customs to visitors.