filial
|fil-i-al|
🇺🇸
/ˈfɪliəl/
🇬🇧
/ˈfɪljəl/
child's duty/respect toward parents
Etymology
'filial' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'filiālis', where 'filius' meant 'son' and the suffix '-alis' meant 'pertaining to'.
'filial' changed from Latin 'filiālis' into Old French (similar form) and entered Middle English as 'filial', eventually becoming the modern English 'filial'.
Initially, it meant 'of or relating to a son', but over time it broadened to mean 'of or relating to a child' and acquired the additional sense of 'dutiful or respectful toward parents'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to a son or daughter; pertaining to the relationship between a child and a parent.
She felt a filial duty to look after her elderly parents.
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Adjective 2
showing respect, duty, or devotion expected from a son or daughter (dutiful; respectful toward parents).
His filial devotion was clear in the way he cared for his mother.
Synonyms
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/21 19:19