1. the state or condition of being an orphan; the period of time during which someone is an orphan

Examples

• Her orphanhood began when she was only five years old.
• The novel explores themes of orphanhood and belonging.
• He struggled with feelings of abandonment throughout his orphanhood.
• The charity provides support for children experiencing orphanhood.
• She wrote about her orphanhood in her memoir.
• The effects of orphanhood lasted well into his adult years.