motherly

/'mʌðəli/

Thân thiện

She offered a motherly smile to the child who had scraped his knee.

Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Warm, nurturing, and protective in a way considered typical of a good mother: "motherly" describes qualities, feelings, or behavior that are kind, caring, and affectionate, like those traditionally associated with a mother.
   • Befitting or characteristic of a mother: "motherly" can describe actions, attitudes, or instincts that are appropriate for or reminiscent of a mother.

2. Adverb (less common):

   • In a maternal manner; like a mother: "motherly" can describe how an action is performed—with maternal care and affection.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
• Adverb: (Note: This adverbial use is less frequent; "in a motherly way" is more common.)

Advanced Usage

• "motherly love": the deep, nurturing affection characteristic of a mother.
• "motherly instincts": natural feelings or impulses to protect and care for others, as a mother would.

Variants and Related Words

• Motherliness (noun): the quality of being motherly.
• Maternal (adjective): related to or characteristic of a mother. (Often used interchangeably with "motherly," though "maternal" can be more clinical or biological.)

Synonyms

• Maternal: of or like a mother.
• Nurturing: providing care and encouragement.
• Protective: wanting to keep someone safe from harm.
• Warm: showing enthusiasm, affection, or kindness.

Antonyms

• Unmotherly: not having or showing the qualities of a mother.
• Cold: lacking affection or warmth.
• Neglectful: failing to care for properly.

Related Phrases

• In a motherly way (adverbial phrase): acting with maternal care.
• Motherly advice: guidance given with care and concern, as a mother would give.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. befitting a mother; warm and nurturing

Adverb

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

Từ đồng nghĩa

• maternally