paternity

noun

pa·ter·ni·ty | \pə-ˈtər-nə-tē

Definition of paternity

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 : the quality or state of being a father

2 : origin or descent from a father

paternity

adjective

Definition of paternity (Entry 2 of 2)

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: Noun

Mathis can remain on the paternity list for a maximum of three days. — Nick Piecoro, azcentral, "Zack Godley gets back on track as Diamondbacks finish sweep," 10 June 2018 In addition to placing Realmuto on the paternity list, the Marlins made a number of other roster moves Monday. — Clark Spencer, miamiherald, "This ex-Marlin went from the basement to the penthouse in six months time," 9 July 2018 Azar said parents and children are being swabbed for DNA to match paternity and checks are being done as rapidly as possible to make the court deadline. — CBS News, "With thousands of children still separated, deadline to reunite immigrants quickly approaching," 6 July 2018 Gurriel must miss Thursday's game but can miss no more than three games while on the paternity list. — Chandler Rome, Houston Chronicle, "Astros' Yuli Gurriel headed to paternity list; A.J. Reed called up," 28 June 2018 The tests commonly used to determine paternity or maternity rely on a different method that provides a simple yes or no answer. — Megan Molteni, WIRED, "Family DNA Testing at the Border Would Be an Ethical Quagmire," 22 June 2018 Infielder Danny Valencia returned to the club after missing two games on the paternity list following the birth of his son, Oliver. — Eduardo A. Encina, baltimoresun.com, "Orioles notes: Colby Rasmus begins rehab assignment with Double-A Bowie," 1 June 2018 After initially calling off their wedding in 2015, Palin and Meyer married six months after Sailor's arrival, following public arguing over the collapse of their engagemen, plus paternity and child-support issues. — Erin Jensen, USA TODAY, "Do these tender Instagrams from Bristol Palin, Dakota Meyer indicate their divorce is off?," 23 May 2018 With outfielder Jay Bruce back from the paternity list, the Mets produced their highest scoring output since a 14-run explosion on April 29. — James Wagner, New York Times, "Mets Win a Laugher, but Cespedes Remains in Injury Limbo," 15 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'paternity.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.