paternity

1 of 2

noun

pa·​ter·​ni·​ty pə-ˈtər-nə-tē How to pronounce paternity (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being a father
2
: origin or descent from a father

paternity

2 of 2

adjective

1
: granted to a father
paternity leave
paternity rights
2
: of or relating to the determination of paternity
a paternity suit

Examples of paternity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Hill has also faced several paternity suits from previous relationships over the years. Jordana Comiter, People.com, 23 Jan. 2025 Although the Cali rapper initially denied paternity, a DNA test aired on their reality series Blueface & Chrisean: Crazy in Love, which allegedly proved the child was his. Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 2 Dec. 2024
Adjective
The myth that 10 percent of children the product of 'non-paternity events' is rather persistent. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 23 Apr. 2012 See all Example Sentences for paternity 

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1544, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of paternity was in 1544

Dictionary Entries Near paternity

Cite this Entry

“Paternity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paternity. Accessed 6 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

paternity

noun
pa·​ter·​ni·​ty
pə-ˈtər-nət-ē
1
: the state of being a father
2
: origin from a father

Legal Definition

paternity

noun
pa·​ter·​ni·​ty pə-ˈtər-nə-tē How to pronounce paternity (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being a father
2
: origin or descent from a father
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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