patriarchal — relating to or characteristic of a system of society or government controlled by men
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: relating to or characteristic of a system of society or government controlled by men
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌpeɪtriˈɑːrkəl/
Example Sentences
- My grandfather's patriarchal attitude made him believe washing dishes was 'women's work.'
- The patriarchal tradition required sons to inherit the family business.
- She challenged the patriarchal norms by becoming the first female CEO in her family.
patriarchal
ADJECTIVE[/ˌpeɪtriˈɑːrkəl/]
relating to or characteristic of a system of society or government controlled by men
In the old manor, only the eldest son inherits — a patriarchal tradition nobody questions.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Ancient Greek, combining 'pater' (father) and 'archein' (to rule). It originally described a social system where paternal authority and male dominance governed family and society structures.
Breakdown
pater- (father) + -arch- (to rule, from archein) + -al (adjective suffix), literally meaning 'ruled by fathers' or 'characteristic of paternal rule'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandfather's patriarchal attitude made him believe washing dishes was 'women's work.'”
“The patriarchal tradition required sons to inherit the family business.”
“She challenged the patriarchal norms by becoming the first female CEO in her family.”
“The patriarchal dinner table rule was 'Dad speaks first, kids eat last.'”
📚Related Words
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