motherly

adjective

ˈmə-t͟hər-lē How to pronounce motherly (audio)
Definition of motherlynext
as in maternal
of, relating to, or characteristic of a mother she showed a sweet motherly tenderness toward the tiny kitten she was taking care of

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 motherly Tiger Woods’ Sun Day Red is steeped in tradition… and a hearty dose of motherly superstition. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 4 June 2026 In a display of tough love, Anne kicks her out, urging her to trust her motherly instincts and not doubt herself. — Erin Jensen, USA Today, 28 May 2026 This week started with honoring our moms and those who have acted as a motherly presence in our lives. — Grace Miserocchi, Chicago Tribune, 16 May 2026 Here's when Mother's Day is and a couple ideas of gifts for the mother or motherly figure in your life. — Josh Kelly, Oklahoman, 24 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for motherly
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motherly
maternal
Adjective
  • Her confessions look like maternal desperation rather than the truth.
    — Kayti Burt, Time, 6 Oct. 2026
  • The small, troubled Trask family represents isolation, generational trauma and dysfunctional cycles in contrast to the large, loving and morally grounded Hamilton family, who are modeled after Steinbeck’s own maternal ancestors.
    — Senior Television, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of maternal

Browse Nearby Words

mother lodes
motherly
mother-naked
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Cite this Entry

“Motherly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motherly. Accessed 11 Oct. 2026.

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