motherly

/'mʌðəli/

Friendly

Sure! Let's break down the word "motherly" in an easy-to-understand way.

Definition:

"Motherly" is an adjective that describes behavior or characteristics that are typical of a mother. It means being warm, caring, and nurturing, like a mother would be to her children.

Usage:

You can use "motherly" to describe someone who shows kindness and care, especially towards others who need support or love.

Example:

• "She has a motherly way of comforting her friends when they are sad." (This means she is caring and supportive, just like a mother would be.)

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, you might hear "motherly" used in literature or psychology to discuss nurturing relationships or behaviors that promote emotional growth and security.

Word Variants:

• Mother (noun): A female parent.
• Motherhood (noun): The state of being a mother.
• Motherly (adverb): In a way that is caring and nurturing, like a mother.
  • Example: "She spoke to the children motherly, making them feel safe."

Different Meanings:

While "motherly" primarily refers to the nurturing qualities of a mother, it can also imply a protective or guiding nature, not just limited to biological mothers. For example, a teacher or a mentor who cares deeply for their students can also be described as motherly.

Synonyms:

• Nurturing
• Caring
• Protective
• Warm-hearted
• Compassionate

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren’t specific idioms that use "motherly," you might consider phrases like: - "Mother hen": This idiom refers to someone who is very protective and caring, often to the point of being overly so, like a mother hen caring for her chicks.

Summary:

To sum up, "motherly" is a word that describes a caring and nurturing attitude, similar to what a mother shows.

Academic

Adjective

1. befitting a mother; warm and nurturing

Adverb

1. in a maternal manner; as a mother
   • she loved her students almost maternally

Synonyms

• maternally