'matronly' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'matrona', where 'matr-' meant 'mother' (a married woman).

'matronly' developed via Old French/Latin influence: Latin 'matrona' -> Old French 'matrone' -> Middle English 'matron' -> modern English 'matron' + the adjectival suffix '-ly' to form 'matronly'.

Initially, it meant 'of or relating to a matron (a married woman or a woman in charge of household duties)'; over time it has broadened to describe qualities associated with such women (dignified, maternal) and, in some uses, to imply plainness or stoutness.