Maternally - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Maternally means relating to or characteristic of a mother, often describing actions done with care, warmth, and protectiveness. It can also refer to traits inherited from one’s mother.
Definition:
Relating to or characteristic of a mother, especially in a caring or nurturing way.
Synonyms:
motherly, nurturing, protective, caring
Part of Speech:
adverb
Antonyms:
paternally, coldly, neglectfully
Common Collocations:
maternally inherited, maternally instinctive, maternally affectionate
Derivatives:
maternal, maternity, maternalism
Usage Tips:
Use "maternally" to describe actions or feelings resembling a mother's care or behavior.
Common Phrases:
maternally inclined, act maternally, speak maternally
Etymology:
Derived from Latin "maternalis," meaning "of a mother," from "mater" (mother).
Examples:
- 1. She smiled maternally at the child playing nearby.
- 2. The doctor spoke maternally to comfort the nervous patient.
- 3. Her voice softened maternally when she spoke to her grandchildren.
- 4. The teacher guided the students maternally through their first project.