paternalistic
|pa/ter/nal/is/tic|
🇺🇸
/pəˌtɜrnəˈlɪstɪk/
🇬🇧
/pəˌtɜːnəˈlɪstɪk/
father-like control
Etymology
'paternalistic' originates from the Latin word 'pater,' meaning 'father,' combined with the suffix '-istic,' indicating a characteristic or quality.
'pater' transformed into the English word 'paternal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'paternalistic.'
Initially, it meant 'father-like,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'restrictive in a protective manner.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or characterized by the restriction of freedom and responsibilities of subordinates or dependents in their supposed interest.
The company's paternalistic policies were intended to protect employees but often limited their autonomy.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/20 11:43