'patriarchy' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'patriarkhēs,' where 'patria' meant 'family' and 'arkhēs' meant 'ruler.'

'patriarkhēs' transformed into the Latin word 'patriarchia,' and eventually became the modern English word 'patriarchy' through Old French.

Initially, it meant 'rule of the father,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a system where men hold power.'