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Mães is the Portuguese term for female parents, encompassing biological mothers as well as other maternal figures who assume caregiving and nurturing roles. The concept also extends to adoptive mothers, stepmothers, and other women who act as primary caregivers within a family or community. In many contexts, the word carries cultural and emotional significance beyond biological ties, reflecting social bonds and responsibilities.

Etymology and orthography: Mãe comes from Latin mater, and its modern form shows distinctive Portuguese phonology, including nasalization and the use of diacritics. The plural is mães, which marks the shift in spelling to indicate a plural and preserves the nasal vowel. The term is widely used across Portuguese-speaking countries with similar meanings, though local expressions and customs may vary.

Roles and meanings: Across cultures, mothers are commonly associated with caregiving, education, and the emotional development of children. The specific expectations of motherhood differ according to social, economic, and legal contexts, and many families today include diverse arrangements such as single-parent households, shared parenting, and multigenerational caregiving. The term also acknowledges non-biological maternal figures who provide support and guidance.

Legal and social dimensions: Policies related to motherhood include maternal health care, childbirth support, and parental leave, which vary by country. Societal norms surrounding motherhood intersect with gender roles, work life balance, and child welfare, influencing policies, family structures, and individual experiences.

Observances: Dia das Mães, or Mother's Day, is celebrated in many Portuguese-speaking regions, though the date and customs differ by country. It serves to recognize the contributions of mothers and maternal figures within families and communities.