matriarch
1 synonym and 3 antonyms for matriarch, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A woman who is the head or leading figure of a family, tribe, or group.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use matriarch
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
family matriarch
clan matriarch
Etymology
From Latin māter, "mother," combined with -arch, from Greek arkhós, "chief, leader."
Full origin of matriarch →Frequently asked questions
What does “matriarch” mean?
The word “matriarch” means a woman who is the head or leading figure of a family, tribe, or group. In plain terms, a senior, powerful female leader of a family or group.
How do you pronounce “matriarch”?
“Matriarch” is pronounced MAYT-rih-ahk (/ˈmeɪtɹiɑɹk/ in IPA).
How do you use “matriarch” in a sentence?
Here is “matriarch” used in a sentence: “The family matriarch still made every major decision at ninety years old.”
What is another word for “matriarch”?
Words with a similar meaning to “matriarch” include materfamilias.
What is the opposite of “matriarch”?
The opposite of “matriarch” — its antonyms — are highfather, paterfamilias and patriarch.
What part of speech is “matriarch”?
“Matriarch” is a noun.
Where does the word “matriarch” come from?
The word “matriarch” comes from Latin. From Latin māter, "mother," combined with -arch, from Greek arkhós, "chief, leader.".
