MATRIARCHAL Synonyms: 70 Similar and Opposite Words

matriarchal

adjective

Definition of matriarchal

as in female

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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 matriarchal Despite that underlying tension, kids play on the street outside while the large family has a dynamic like any other — noisily squabbling, joking, or in the case of the matriarchal grandmother, Mariam (Hiam Abbass), preparing a meal in a kitchen plagued by constant utility outages. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 15 May 2026 In the supporting role of the matriarchal cookhouse keeper Maria was Denyce Graves, the legendary mezzo-soprano opera star. — Charlotte Observer, 13 May 2026 There is a strong matriarchal figure whose presence dictates the course of action. — Christopher Smith, Oc Register, 9 May 2026 This matriarchal practice defines Tunisia’s food culture. — Boutheina Ben Salem, Vogue, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for matriarchal

Recent Examples of Synonyms for matriarchal

Adjective

A lot of the focus was on their use of Flock license plate readers and the detectives' decision to search for the license plate of the department vehicle driven by the female detective.

— Kelsy Mittauer, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026
Pins that support women’s social, political and health causes were framed into a large flower and plastered atop a bright pink background to promote the all-female performance charity event.

— Elizabeth Grace Coyne, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026

Definition of female

Adjective

Andrey Zvyagintsev’s Minotaur, which won Cannes’ runner-up prize, the Grand Prix, explores personal, political and patriarchal corruption in contemporary Russia.

— Hilary Lewis, HollywoodReporter, 5 Aug. 2026
The novel shows how women can reinforce patriarchal norms by enforcing ideals of ritual purity against other women.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 July 2026

Definition of patriarchal

Adjective

The flowy silhouette and delicate ruffle hem look feminine and fresh, while the color pops beautifully against beachy backdrops and golden sunsets.

— Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 3 Aug. 2026
During Thursday’s call, Albesa outlined several upcoming initiatives for Puig, beginning with the launch of Jean Paul Gaultier’s new feminine fragrance, La Favorite.

— Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 30 July 2026

Definition of feminine

Adjective

After evading suspicion for years, in part because of her disarming, matronly demeanor, Puente was ultimately arrested.

— Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 7 July 2026
After years of matronly tankinis, there are now some great plus-size swim pieces available on the market, including this scarlet snake-print one-piece from Nomads Swimwear.

— Sarah Chiwaya, Refinery29, 6 Apr. 2025

Definition of matronly

Adjective

The motion requests that a judge allow Allaway to leave a geriatric unit at Napa State Hospital and instead take part in outpatient treatment.

— Mona Darwish, Oc Register, 14 July 2026
John Goodman co-stars as a geriatric US president, with Mercedes Hernandez playing Digger’s housekeeper.

— Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026

Definition of geriatric

Adjective

With its elegant, womanly heel curving into a narrow point and its sensible perforated top designed to resemble a man's oxford dress shoe, the oxford pump is the shoe of a woman who stands between two worlds.

— Danielle Parker, CBS News, 9 June 2026
Marant launched her label and had her first show in 1994, quickly becoming a byword for a hip, womanly brand of boho chic.

— Miles Socha, Footwear News, 26 May 2026

Definition of womanly

Adjective

Beijing has appointed its own senior monks, maintained close surveillance and controls on religious expression, and faced allegations of cracking down on peaceful dissent and forcing the large-scale relocation of rural and nomadic Tibetans.

— CNN Money, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
Twelve of its 13 members approved it, including senior figures in the Revolutionary Guard and the military.

— ABC News, ABC News, 2 Aug. 2026

Definition of senior

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“Matriarchal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/matriarchal. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of matriarchal

adjective

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