maternal
Pronunciation: [məˈtɜrnəl]
Word
Context: “relationship”
(adjective) related to being a mother or having qualities like a mother. It describes feelings, behaviors, or things that show love, care, or support like a mother would.
Example
Her maternal instincts kicked in when she saw the baby crying.
Example
He did not show any maternal feelings towards the children in the group.
Example
What are some maternal traits that you admire in your mother?
Context: “biological”
(adjective) connected to the mother in terms of birth and family. It means things that come from the mother's side of the family.
Example
She inherited her maternal grandmother's green eyes.
Example
His paternal traits are much stronger than any maternal ones.
Example
Can you tell me about your maternal family members?
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