matronal
Adjective: Relating to, characteristic of, or suitable for a matron (a married woman, especially one who is mature and dignified in appearance or status).
- (Her dignified posture showed she was a mature, respected woman.)
- (The clothing was appropriate for a married woman of mature years.)
- (His voice had the serious, authoritative quality of a matron.)
"matronal age": the stage of life when a woman is considered a matron, typically middle-aged.
- She was now of matronal age, with grown children and a settled household. (She had reached the mature phase of womanhood.)
"matronal authority": the power or influence exerted by a matron in a family or community.
- In the village, her matronal authority was unchallenged. (Her status as a mature married woman gave her strong influence.)
Matron (n): a married woman, especially one who is mature and dignified; also, a woman in charge of domestic arrangements in an institution.
- The matron of the hospital oversaw the nursing staff. (The mature woman in charge of the nurses.)
Matronly (adj): having the qualities of a matron; dignified and often plump or motherly in appearance.
- Her matronly figure was comforting to the children. (She looked like a typical motherly, dignified woman.)
Matriarch (n): a woman who is the head of a family or tribe.
- The matriarch made all the important decisions for the clan. (The female leader.)
- Dignified: having or showing a composed or serious manner.
- Motherly: characteristic of a mother, especially in being caring and protective.
- Mature: fully developed physically and mentally; adult.
"Matron of honour": a married woman who serves as the chief attendant to the bride at a wedding.
- Her sister, already married, acted as the matron of honour. (The married attendant.)
"Matronly figure": a body shape that is full and soft, typical of an older married woman.
- She had a matronly figure, with a round face and gentle curves. (A plump, motherly appearance.)