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 veteran has directed more than 30 features addressing the situation of women in a patriarchal culture, having won awards at major festivals like San Sebastián and earning Golden Bear and Golden Lion nominations. — Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 9 July 2026

For them, the future of American conservatism should be rooted in a patriarchal version of Christianity and an unapologetic ethnonationalism. — Charlie Sabgir, The Atlantic, 1 July 2026

The debut novel from this English professor and pioneering feminist follows Mira, a suburban homemaker who chafes against patriarchal society, divorces her husband, enrolls in graduate school, and becomes an outspoken advocate for women’s rights. — Michael Schaub, Oc Register, 25 June 2026

And, of course, in the literature of the West, the Iliad and the Odyssey unfurl the proud banner of patriarchal order. — David Denby, New Yorker, 21 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing patriarchal

• patriarchal cross

Rhymes for patriarchal

• matriarchal
• sparkle