Definition of maternalnext
as in mother
of, relating to, or characteristic of a mother her maternal instincts told her that something was wrong

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 maternal Her maternal grandfather was a diplomat. Los Angeles Times, 24 Feb. 2026 His maternal grandmother was anorexic. Helen Lewis, The Atlantic, 24 Feb. 2026 Texas Children's Hospital has opened a second maternal-fetal medicine location for mothers-to-be who are having a high-risk pregnancy. Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 21 Feb. 2026 Deborah Polhamus, the maternal grandmother of teenage school shooter Colt Gray, testified Friday that the teen’s father Colin Gray bought him an AR-15-style rifle as a Christmas gift nine months before the shooting. Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for maternal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maternal
Adjective
  • California prohibits online platforms from knowingly providing an addictive feed to a minor without parental consent.
    Gili Malinsky, CNBC, 23 Feb. 2026
  • Part of my parental advocacy strategy is the parent council doing media and engagement outreach and then digital literacy.
    Nicole Carpenter, Vulture, 23 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Between feminine floral notes, subtle citrus hints, warm earthy touches, and robust musky undertones, there are so many fragrance types to explore, and why settle on just one?
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Ladylike dressing felt more playful this season, with a relaxed, feminine ease across collections.
    Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 24 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn To some, going home is a relaxing retreat full of motherly love and too much food.
    Amanda Favazza, Southern Living, 15 Feb. 2026
  • While some see Nelly as an empathetic and motherly caretaker, others view her as a manipulative, calculating instigator who shapes the narrative to justify her own actions.
    Megan McCluskey, Time, 13 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Maternal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maternal. Accessed 2 Mar. 2026.

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