The Case for "Coparent": Why We Drop the Hyphen
We write 'coparent' without the hyphen: compound words naturally lose hyphens as they mature (email, website), the unhyphenated form matches other co- terms, and search trends show usage moving the same direction. Language evolved; our spelling follows.
The term “coparent” is widely used in discussions about shared parenting and family dynamics, especially when referring to the joint responsibilities of individuals who are raising a child together, whether they live together or apart. However, there is often debate (even in our own office) over whether the term should be hyphenated as “co-parent” or written as one word, “coparent.”
Many top coparenting apps like Our Family Wizard, BestInterest, and Talking Parents refer to their apps using the hyphen, which is the more traditional way to refer to coparents.
This article explores the reasons why the single-word form, “coparent,” is preferable and why it’s becoming the standard in both professional and casual use.
The Evolution of Compound Words
English is a dynamic language that evolves with time, and the treatment of compound words is a prime example of this evolution. Initially, many compound words in English begin as two separate words, then may be hyphenated, and eventually merge into a single word. Examples include “email” from “electronic mail,” “website” from “web site,” and even “today,” which originated from “to day.” The progression from “co-parent” to “coparent” follows this natural linguistic evolution, reflecting a broader acceptance and integration of the concept into everyday language.
Linguistic Simplicity and Efficiency
One of the primary arguments for using “coparent” over “co-parent” is simplicity. Removing the hyphen makes the term easier to write and type, which is particularly advantageous in digital communication. As with other technological and internet-related terms that have quickly become part of everyday vocabulary, the simplified form “coparent” is more streamlined and efficient for frequent use.
Consistency with Other “Co-” Terms
Many words that begin with the prefix “co-” do not require a hyphen, especially when the prefix precedes a root word that begins with a consonant. Examples include “cooperate,” “coordinate,” and “coexist.” The prefix “co-” typically means “together,” “jointly,” or “mutually,” and adding it to “parent” without a hyphen aligns with the standard usage of other similar compound words without changing the meaning.
Search Trends and Popular Usage
According to Google Trends and analysis of online content, “coparent” is used far more frequently than “co-parent.” This trend indicates that the general public has largely adopted the non-hyphenated form, influencing its acceptance and normalization. Digital communication often favors shorter forms, and as “coparent” becomes more common in blogs, articles, and discussions about parenting, it helps cement the term’s spelling.
Spell Check and Dictionaries
While spell check tools and some dictionaries may still recognize “co-parent” as the correct form, these resources frequently update to reflect popular usage. Over time, as “coparent” becomes more widely accepted, it is likely that reference materials will adapt to include the non-hyphenated form as standard.
Final Thoughts
The shift from “co-parent” to “coparent” reflects the natural linguistic evolution typical of the English language, where efficiency, simplicity, and usage patterns influence changes in spelling. As society continues to embrace more streamlined communication, especially in digital formats, “coparent” without a hyphen is not only more convenient but also aligns with the dynamic nature of language that adapts to societal changes. Thus, dropping the hyphen in “coparent” is an acknowledgment of the word’s established place in our lexicon, supported by both linguistic principles and popular usage.
And please forgive us when we forget and add the hyphen!
Frequently asked questions
Is it 'coparent' or 'co-parent'?
Both are in use, but we write 'coparent' without the hyphen. Compound words shed hyphens as they mature — e-mail became email, web site became website — and coparent is following the same path.
Why drop the hyphen from co-parent?
Simplicity, consistency, and momentum: the unhyphenated form matches other co- terms, reads cleaner, and search trends show usage steadily moving that direction. Language evolves toward efficiency; spelling eventually follows usage.
Do dictionaries accept 'coparent'?
Adoption is in progress — some dictionaries and spell-checkers still prefer the hyphen while usage races ahead of them. That lag is normal for maturing compounds; dictionaries record change after it happens.
