helicopter parent

noun

: a parent who is overly involved in the life of his or her child

Examples of helicopter parent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Characteristics of Benign Neglect Benign neglect is essentially the opposite of being a helicopter parent, explains Boerke. —

Emily Shiffer, Parents, 17 Dec. 2024 Unlike a helicopter parent, a lighthouse parent allows their kids to make decisions and learn to deal with the consequences of their choices. —

Aditi Shrikant, CNBC, 11 Oct. 2024 On the spectrum of parenting styles, lighthouse parenting hovers right around the middle—not as involved as a helicopter parent, but not as hands-off as a free-range parent. —

Alex Vance, Parents, 20 Sep. 2024 If a helicopter parent is coupled with a free-range parent, the pair may benefit from working with a therapist or coach to create balance within the family. —

Caroline Silver, Parents, 17 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for helicopter parent

Word History

First Known Use

1989, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of helicopter parent was in 1989

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Helicopter parent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helicopter%20parent. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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