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

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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 Parental leave policies that fail to consider these cultural norms may force employees to choose between their professional responsibilities and deeply rooted traditions that support maternal and family well-being. Cynthia McEwen, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 Grant Terminated Research examining maternal behavioral health conditions of Black women. ProPublica, 12 June 2025 The report reveals large demographic and geographic differences in maternal age. Doc Louallen, ABC News, 13 June 2025 The Covid-19 vaccines can also protect the newborn—one of the highest-risk groups for hospitalization—since taking a dose during pregnancy confers maternal antibodies to the fetus, Faust says. Shreyas Teegala, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for maternal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for maternal
Adjective
  • Floral and lace prints, often in transparent fabrics, revealed boning and hoop skirt structures, and mutton sleeves added to the feminine innocence that prevailed.
    Roxanne Robinson, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Contrast feminine elements, like a lacy slip dress and embroidered ballerinas, with an oversized boyish button-up for a well-balanced look.
    Christina Holevas, Vogue, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Physically unhurt but deeply shaken, she is taken in by a local woman who witnessed the accident and begins to care for Laura with motherly devotion.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 4 June 2025
  • Seeing her motherly behavior towards Kayla's children is so heartwarming.
    Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Maternal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/maternal. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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