Meaning & use
matriarch of the family
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
The oldest woman in a family who is respected and has authority over the others.
Grammar: Used as a noun phrase; often preceded by 'the'.
Patterns
- the matriarch of the family
- a matriarch of the family
After her husband died, she became the matriarch of the family, making all the important decisions.
The matriarch of the family insisted that everyone gather for Sunday dinner.
In many cultures, the matriarch of the family is responsible for keeping traditions alive.
Common combinations
- the family matriarch
- The family matriarch was known for her wisdom and kindness.
- respected matriarch
- She was a respected matriarch who guided her children and grandchildren.
- become the matriarch
- After her mother passed away, she became the matriarch of the family.
Synonyms and how they differ
- matriarch
- This is the single-word form; 'matriarch of the family' is more specific and formal.
- female head of the family
- This is a descriptive phrase that is more neutral and less formal.
Opposites
Word family
- matriarchal adjective
- Describing a system where women hold the power.
- matriarchy noun
- A society or system ruled by women.
Commonly confused: matriarch of the family or patriarch of the family?
matriarch of the family vs patriarch of the family
This means the oldest man in the family who has authority, not a woman.
Practice
In the novel, Grandma Rose is the ____, and everyone turns to her for advice.
Choose one answer.
'Matriarch of the family' fits because Grandma Rose is a respected older woman with authority. 'Patriarch' would mean a man, and 'matronly figure' describes appearance, not authority.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “matriarch of the family”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.