motherly

1 of 2

adjective

moth·​er·​ly ˈmə-t͟hər-lē 

1

: of, relating to, or characteristic of a mother

motherly advice

2

: resembling a mother : maternal

motherliness noun

motherliness

2 of 2

noun

moth·​er·​li·​ness

-lēnə̇s, 

-lin-

plural -es

: maternal quality : the tenderness, warmth, or affection of or befitting a mother

her motherliness made her invaluable in caring for the twins

—Elizabeth Goudge

Synonyms of motherly

Adjective

• maternal

Examples of motherly in a Sentence

Adjective

She took her motherly duties very seriously.

she showed a sweet motherly tenderness toward the tiny kitten she was taking care of

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

An architectural historian who specializes in 19th-century Turkish interiors, Sedef Piker is a supporting character on the stream — occasionally popping up in the background with some mezze or motherly wisdom. — Josh Eells, Rolling Stone, 9 Aug. 2026

The 22-year-old, who attended the premiere with her mom and siblings, also spoke to the outlet about Ringwald’s motherly advice. — Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 5 Aug. 2026

Things take an unexpected turn when Aemond, mistaking motherly love for romantic love, leans in and kisses Alicent, leaving her shocked and horrified. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 22 June 2026

Tiger Woods’ Sun Day Red is steeped in tradition… and a hearty dose of motherly superstition. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 4 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for motherly

• brotherly
• southerly

Kids Definition

motherly

adjective

moth·​er·​ly ˈmət͟h-ər-lē 

1

: of, relating to, or characteristic of a mother

motherly affection

2

: resembling a mother

motherliness noun