matriarch
/'meitriɑ:k/
Definition
- Noun:
- A female head of a family or tribe: A woman who is the head and ruler of her family or social group, often holding a position of respect and authority passed down through generations.
- (Informal/Humorous) A dignified, powerful, or feisty older woman: Often used to describe a woman who is a dominant or commanding figure within a domestic or social sphere.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- In many traditional societies, the eldest woman served as the matriarch, making important decisions for the entire clan.
- After her husband passed away, she became the family matriarch, guiding her children and grandchildren with wisdom.
- (Informal) My grandmother is the matriarch of our household; everyone listens to her advice.
Advanced Usage
"The matriarch of the family": A common phrase emphasizing the woman's central, governing role within the family unit.
- As the matriarch of the family, she presided over all holiday gatherings.
"A matriarchal society": (Note: This is a related term, not the target word itself). Refers to a social system where power and lineage are traced through women.
- Anthropologists have studied cultures with a matriarchal structure.
Variants and Related Words
Matriarchal (adj): Characteristic of or relating to a matriarch or matriarchy.
- The family had a matriarchal system of inheritance.
Matriarchy (n): A social system in which women hold primary power and roles of political leadership.
- The concept of a true matriarchy is rare in recorded history.
Synonyms
- Female head: A woman who leads a family or group.
- Dowager: A widow with a title or property derived from her late husband, often conveying dignity and authority.
- Matron: A married woman, especially one who is dignified and mature.
Antonyms
- Patriarch: A male head of a family or tribe.
Noun
-
a feisty older woman with a big bosom (as drawn in cartoons)
-
a female head of a family or tribe
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