materfamilias

noun

Definition of materfamiliasnext
as in matriarch

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of materfamilias The novel recounts the history and hardships of the Binewski clan, carnival folk whose pater- and materfamilias, Al and Crystal Lil, create their own freak show. — Elizabeth Hand, Washington Post, 11 Nov. 2022 But with tact and humanity, this materfamilias has still calmed the waters. — Boyd Van Hoeij, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Oct. 2019 Though the Roundabout production, which opened on Tuesday evening, stars Elizabeth McGovern as the materfamilias, the story really is Kay’s. — Jesse Green, New York Times, 10 Oct. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for materfamilias
  1. matriarch
  2. matron
  3. stepmother
  4. mom
  5. mama
Noun
  • Lowry lost his wife and Columbine football matriarch Janet in November 2024, the end of a lengthy seven-year cancer battle.
    — Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 16 Aug. 2026
  • News of Jackie’s death sent ripples of mourning through her fan base, with thousands taking to social media to express their condolences and praise the avian matriarch.
    — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of matriarch
Noun
  • Since then, Hills has worked in various hospitals and wards, including spending 10 years as a ward sister and a matron, which are both senior roles for nurses.
    — Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 27 June 2026
  • How did a young Upper East Side matron with a small daughter and a dormant career as an art historian get here?
    — Lisa Henricksson, Air Mail, 27 June 2026
Definition of matron
Noun
  • Hayek, who welcomed daughter Valentina with Pinault in 2007, immediately took to her new role as a stepmother.
    — Georgia Slater, PEOPLE, 17 Aug. 2026
  • The younger Bolsonaro's campaign has faced headwinds since its start, with moderate political parties keeping their distance, a public rift with his stepmother and difficulties in finding a running mate.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 16 Aug. 2026
Definition of stepmother
Noun
  • Melanie Zanetti will reprise her role as Bluey’s mom, Chilli, from the series, with Richard Jeffrey returning to voice Bluey’s dad, Bandit.
    — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026
  • One person in the Brunson orbit who hasn’t quite been able to break into the game of golf is Jalen’s mom.
    — Omar Jimenez, CNN Money, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of mom
Noun
  • The pups and their mama will soon be up for adoption, according to Green.
    — Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 16 Aug. 2026
  • The must-read Jackie, arguably the world’s most famous bald eagle mama, died Monday morning after a mysterious illness that veterinarians at the Ojai Raptor Center worked hard to combat.
    — Jaclyn Cosgrove, Los Angeles Times, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of mama

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Cite this Entry

“Materfamilias.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/materfamilias. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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