Dear Merriam-Webster Editors,
I noticed that you recently expanded your dictionary by adding 150 new words. That’s quite an impressive feat! But among those additions were terms like “selfie” and “tweep.” Seriously? “Selfie” seems to have originated from pop culture, and “tweep” sounds more like a sneeze than a legitimate word.
What we really need is a new term to describe new mothers. Yes, a word that embodies the unique experience of being a first-time mom who is overwhelmed, unsure, and utterly exhausted. That’s why I propose the term “neomama.”
A “neomama” represents a new mother navigating the bewildering world of parenthood without the instinctual knowledge that comes with experience. She is filled with anxiety over making mistakes, all while battling the fatigue that comes with caring for a newborn. There isn’t a term that captures this specific state of motherhood, and I believe it’s time to change that.
New mothers deserve a word that sets them apart from mothers of toddlers, preschoolers, or older children. There’s a significant difference between a first-time mom and one who is welcoming baby number two or three.
If you’re tempted to argue that the dictionary already includes plenty of words related to motherhood, let me assure you, it does not encompass the essence of a new mom. Sure, you have terms like “Earth mother” and “den mother,” but those don’t capture the raw experience of a “neomama.”
A Personal Story
Allow me to share a personal story that illustrates the need for this term. I vividly remember my first morning alone at home with my six-day-old baby. My parents, in-laws, and husband were all gone, leaving me with a tiny human and a million questions.
The highlight of that day was a supposed peaceful stroll around the block. I had a sling that I thought would make things easier, but panic set in when I worried it was suffocating my son. I ended up carrying him in my arms, drawing attention from a well-meaning stranger who asked for his name. I froze. What was his name? It was still so new to me!
That moment perfectly sums up what it feels like to be a “neomama.” Eventually, I found my footing and evolved into a confident mom, but the journey from “neomama” to simply “mom” is a significant transition that deserves recognition.
I hope you’ll consider adding this term to your esteemed dictionary, as it reflects a vital stage in the journey of motherhood.
Additional Resources
For those interested in exploring options for creating a family, check out our blog post on home insemination, which provides valuable insights into the process. Additionally, if you’re looking for a comprehensive resource on pregnancy and home insemination, visit the excellent site at Hopkins Medicine. And for a trusted product, check out Cryobaby, an authority in home insemination kits.
In summary, it’s clear that we need a specific term for new mothers. “Neomama” captures the essence of their unique experience, and I hope you’ll consider adding it to your dictionary.