Langimage
English

matrilineal

|mat/ri/lin/e/al|

C1

/ˌmætrɪˈlɪniəl/

mother's lineage

Etymology
Etymology Information

'matrilineal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'mater,' meaning 'mother,' and 'linea,' meaning 'line.'

Historical Evolution

'mater' and 'linea' combined in English to form 'matrilineal,' emphasizing lineage through the mother.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'lineage through the mother,' and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

relating to or based on kinship with the mother or the female line.

In some cultures, inheritance is matrilineal, passing from mother to daughter.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/01 21:29