MATRIARCHAL Synonyms: 70 Similar and Opposite Words

matriarchal

adjective

Definition of matriarchal

as in female

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as in patriarchal

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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

The four female students were identified and disciplined, according to officials at San Marcos High School and the Santa Barbara Unified School District, who did not release the students’ names or detail the discipline.

— Terry Castleman Follow, Los Angeles Times, 2 Oct. 2026
By September, Michelle had returned to the campaign to support her stepson, asking her network of female supporters to help elect him.

— Alessandra Freitas, CNN Money, 2 Oct. 2026

Definition of female

Adjective

The use of pseudonyms by female writers born in the nineteenth century is typically understood as a feminist loophole around the patriarchal suppression of women’s writing.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 5 Oct. 2026
They are constrained by their circumstances and trapped in a circle created for them by a patriarchal, restrictive society.

— Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of patriarchal

Adjective

Whimsical, feminine interiors wrapped in custom murals by English artist and designer Luke Edward Hall heighten the sense of theatricality, as does the build-your-own sundae trolley.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
Cutouts and pink floral appliques added a feminine look to Blumarine’s baggy jeans.

— Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026

Definition of feminine

Adjective

One example is Hilton’s care hub, which provides guidance and strategies for caring for elderly relatives, children, and mental health advice.

— Sam Forsdick, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2026
In late May, Netanyahu and his limited security cabinet approved a three-phase proposal that would begin with a six-week ceasefire and the release of 33 elderly and wounded hostages before leading to the release of all others and an end of the war.

— Jeremy Diamond, CNN Money, 8 Oct. 2026

Definition of elderly

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

Somebody like Gilroy or Jeff Kober and Barry Corbin (popping up occasionally as a pair of geriatric gangsters) will come and go in situations knowingly designed to feel contrived.

— Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 23 Sep. 2026
Ossoff, seen as a potential 2028 contender, said geriatric politicians have little comprehension of AI technology.

— Jill Colvin, Chicago Tribune, 19 Sep. 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

This is despite the City of London’s socio-economic diversity taskforce setting a target for half of senior leaders to come from working-class or non-professional backgrounds by 2030.

— Sam Birchall, Fortune, 8 Oct. 2026
The senior Cuaron recalled drawing inspiration from LED displays at a Rolling Stones concert.

— Lin Ying-Hsuan, Variety, 8 Oct. 2026

Definition of senior

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“Matriarchal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/matriarchal. Accessed 10 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of matriarchal

adjective

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