paterfamilias
/'peitəfə'miliæs/ Cách viết khác : (patresfamilias) /'peitri:zfə'miliæs/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The male head of a family or household: "Paterfamilias" refers to the father or oldest male who is the head and authority figure of a family, household, or clan.
Usage
- The word "paterfamilias" is a formal, somewhat archaic, or literary term. It is often used to describe a traditional patriarchal family structure where the eldest male holds significant authority and responsibility.
- It can be used in historical, anthropological, or sociological contexts to discuss family roles.
- It may sometimes be used humorously or ironically to refer to a man who acts in an overly authoritative manner within his home.
Examples
- Noun:
- In ancient Roman law, the paterfamilias had absolute power over his children and slaves.
- He assumed the role of paterfamilias, making all the major decisions for the extended family.
- My grandfather, the beloved paterfamilias, presided over every Sunday dinner.
Advanced Usage
- "The paterfamilias of the tribe": This phrase emphasizes the role as the leading male figure of a larger social group, not just a nuclear family.
- The council deferred to the wisdom of the elderly paterfamilias of the tribe.
- Used in a metaphorical or extended sense for a founding or leading figure in an organization.
- As the company's founder and paterfamilias, his vision shaped its culture for decades.
Variants and Related Words
- Pater (n, informal/British): A somewhat old-fashioned or jocular term for father.
- Patriarch (n): A more common synonym, meaning the male head of a family or tribe. "Patriarch" is less formal and more widely used than "paterfamilias."
- Patresfamilias (n): The plural form of "paterfamilias."
Synonyms
- Patriarch: The male head of a family or tribe.
- Family head: The person who leads a family.
- Sire (archaic/literary): A term for a father or male ancestor.
Antonyms
- Materfamilias (n): The female head of a family or household; a much rarer term.
- Matriarch: The female head of a family or tribe.
Noun
- the male head of family or tribe