paternal Definition
- 1relating to a father, especially in showing kindness or protection
- 2related through the father's side of the family
Using paternal: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paternal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He has a very paternal attitude towards his employees.
Example
The child was raised by his paternal grandparents.
Example
He inherited his artistic talent from his paternal grandfather.
paternal Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for paternal
Antonyms for paternal
Phrases with paternal
Example
His paternal instinct kicked in when he saw his child in danger.
Example
He decided to take a month of paternal leave to help his wife take care of their newborn baby.
paternal grandmother/grandfather
the mother/father of one's father
Example
My paternal grandmother used to tell me stories about her youth.
Origins of paternal
from Latin 'pater', meaning 'father'
Summary: paternal in Brief
The term 'paternal' [pəˈtɜːrnəl] refers to a fatherly or protective attitude, as well as to relationships or traits related to one's father's side of the family. Examples include 'He has a very paternal attitude towards his employees.' and 'The child was raised by his paternal grandparents.' Phrases like 'paternal instinct' and 'paternal leave' denote fatherly tendencies and actions.