MATERNAL - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Meaning 1

Part of speech: Adjective

characteristic of a mother

Example: warm maternal affection for her guest"- Dorothy Sayers

Meaning 2

Part of speech: Adjective

relating to or derived from one's mother

Example: maternal genes

Synonyms

Enatic, Enate, Maternal, Paternal, Parental

Antonyms

Filial, Paternal

🌱 Word Origin (Etymology)

The word "maternal" comes from Proto-Indo-European *méh₂tēr. It started in Latin māternus. Then it appeared in Late Latin māternālis. Later, people used it in Middle French maternel. After that, it was Middle English maternal. Many other languages have similar words:.

French: maternel
Italian: maternale
Portuguese: maternal
Spanish: maternal

🧩 Fun Fact

Following this word's journey reveals ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges.