patriarchal

adjective

pa·​tri·​ar·​chal ˌpā-trē-ˈär-kəl 

: of, relating to, or being a patriarch or patriarchy

a patriarchal culture

a patriarchal religion

Examples of patriarchal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The paternal-line male succession was stipulated for the first time in the 1890 Imperial House Law, when Japan promoted patriarchal systems. — ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026

Across the globe, anti-gender campaigning is frequently tied to right-wing nationalism, white supremacy, and assertions of patriarchal power. — Literary Hub, 13 Aug. 2026

Of course, with Aegon still breathing, the High Septon is less inclined than ever to anoint a woman in defiance of the deeply patriarchal Faith of the Seven. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026

This is a dynastic struggle rooted in antiquated monarchical, patriarchal belief systems. — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing patriarchal

• patriarchal cross

Rhymes for patriarchal

• matriarchal
• sparkle