paternal

[pəˈtɜːrnəl]

paternal Definition

• 1. relating to a father, especially in showing kindness or protection
• 2. related 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

• fatherly
• protective
• kind
• caring
• parental

Antonyms for paternal

• maternal
• unprotective
• unkind

Phrases with paternal

• paternal instinct

  the natural tendency of a father to protect and care for his offspring

  Example

  His paternal instinct kicked in when he saw his child in danger.

• paternal leave

  a period of time that a father takes off work after the birth or adoption of a child

  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'

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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.