pa
ter
nal
1
having qualities or behaviors typically associated with a father, particularly in a caring, supportive, or protective manner
- His paternal love and support were evident in the way he celebrated his children's achievements and comforted them in times of disappointment.
- The father's voice had a soothing, paternal tone as he read bedtime stories to his young daughter.
- One of the most valuable pieces of paternal advice he received was to prioritize his education and never stop learning.
Antonyms:
2
referring to qualities, characteristics, or actions associated with a male parent in general
- School coaches, religious figures and extended family members sometimes take on informal paternal roles for children in their influence.
- Foster parents often develop paternal affection for the children in their care, regardless of biological lineage.
- The teacher praised Mark for his paternal care and guidance toward his younger classmates.
Antonyms:
3
relating to or inherited from one's father or the father's side of the family
- She inherited her artistic talent from her paternal grandmother, who was also a renowned painter.
- The family name is of paternal origin, tracing back several centuries in their ancestral history.
- He proudly displayed his paternal family crest, a symbol that had been passed down through generations.