paternalist

1 of 2

adjective

pa·​ter·​nal·​ist

-ᵊlə̇st

variants or paternalistic

pə¦tərnᵊl¦istik 

-tə̄n-, 

-təin-, 

-stēk

: of, relating to, or practicing paternalism

paternalistically

-stə̇k(ə)lē 

-stēk-, 

-li

adverb

paternalist

2 of 2

noun

" 

plural -s

: a practitioner of paternalism

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now