paterfamilias

noun

Definition of paterfamiliasnext
as in patriarch

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of paterfamilias Schumer’s actions as paterfamilias of Senate Democrats are often informed by his New York sensibilities. — Grace Segers, The New Republic, 13 Sep. 2022 There’s also a concern about acting as if your son were a source of shame, a secret to be hidden from the paterfamilias. — Kwame Anthony Appiah, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2022 This is Putin’s vision of the Russian world, a strong and blessed house with Russia as the paterfamilias, tough and occasionally harsh, but ultimately benevolent, sharing the fruits of Russian civilization with those who belong to its world. — Tom McTague, The Atlantic, 18 June 2022 Andy Garcia plays the paterfamilias in this 2022 remake of the 1991 remake of the 1950 comedy. — Tribune News Service, cleveland, 12 June 2022 See All Example Sentences for paterfamilias
Recent Examples of Synonyms for paterfamilias
patriarch
Noun
  • After the patriarch’s death, the whole Rabello family comes out.
    — John Hopewell, Variety, 7 July 2026
  • Walter Brennan as Grandpa Amos McCoy Walter Brennan played the patriarch of the McCoy family, the tough but lovable Grandpa Amos.
    — Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026
Definition of patriarch

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pater
paterfamilias
paternities
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Cite this Entry

“Paterfamilias.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/paterfamilias. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on paterfamilias

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about paterfamilias

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