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 motherly
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
Shlesinger balances the drama and comedy of the film, while Mullally provides constant laughs with her Southern drawl and absurd motherly criticisms of her daughter.
—Glenn Garner, Deadline, 26 Jan. 2026
That idea comes across in an especially poignant scene in season 5, volume 2, when Robin has a very motherly talk with Will about coming out.
—Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for motherly
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
Shlesinger balances the drama and comedy of the film, while Mullally provides constant laughs with her Southern drawl and absurd motherly criticisms of her daughter.
—Glenn Garner, Deadline, 26 Jan. 2026
That idea comes across in an especially poignant scene in season 5, volume 2, when Robin has a very motherly talk with Will about coming out.
—Lynnette Nicholas, Parents, 8 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for motherly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motherly
maternal
Adjective
-
Research shows, however, that access to modern contraceptives, and the ability to prevent or space out pregnancies, improves maternal mortality rates, family incomes and babies’ health.—
Lauren Kent,
CNN Money,
24 Apr. 2026
-
Preston’s maternal great-uncle, a merchant seaman during World War II, collected African art, and it was all passed on to his mother and then to him.—
Wendy Goodman,
Curbed,
23 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Motherly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motherly. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
