Library / English Dictionary

PATRIARCHAL

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 I. (adjective) 

Sense 1

Meaning:

Characteristic of a form of social organization in which the male is the family head and title is traced through the male line

Classified under:

Adjectives

Similar:

patriarchic ((of societies) being ruled by or having descent traced through the male line)

patricentric (centered upon the father)

Also:

paternal (characteristic of a father)

Antonym:

matriarchal (characteristic of a matriarchy)

Derivation:

patriarch (the male head of family or tribe)

patriarchy (a form of social organization in which a male is the family head and title is traced through the male line)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Relating to or characteristic of a man who is older or higher in rank

Classified under:

Relational adjectives (pertainyms)

Pertainym:

patriarch (a man who is older and higher in rank than yourself)

Derivation:

patriarch (a man who is older and higher in rank than yourself)

Credits