Meaning & use

motherly

adjective·Everyday

Last updated

Having the caring, protective, or nurturing qualities typically associated with a mother.

See it in a sentence

She gave the lost child a motherly hug and helped him find his parents.

His motherly instincts kicked in when he saw the injured bird.

A note on using this word

Can describe anyone, regardless of gender, who shows caring, protective behavior.

Words with a similar meaning

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