matriarchy

noun

ma·​tri·​ar·​chy ˈmā-trē-ˌär-kē 

plural matriarchies

1

: a family, group, or state governed by a matriarch

2

: a system of social organization in which descent and inheritance are traced through the female line

Examples of matriarchy in a Sentence

For 20 years, the country was ruled as a matriarchy.

a region in which matriarchy is practiced

Recent Examples on the Web

Neale explained that the cattle were organized in a matriarchy, with a female at the top of the pecking order. —Leslie Jamison, Travel + Leisure, 23 Jan. 2025

While the study does not suggest that these Celtic communities operated under a formal matriarchy—where women held political power—the researchers believe the findings point to a society in which women held substantial sway over property and resources. —Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 16 Jan. 2025

Prior to their dominance, many societies were organized around principles of matriarchy, reciprocity and communal care. —Dossé-Via Trenou, refinery29.com, 19 Dec. 2024

Andor is a matriarchy, and so the role of heir falls to his younger sister, Elayne. —Denise Petski, Deadline, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

matriarchy

noun

ma·​tri·​ar·​chy ˈmā-trē-ˌär-kē 

plural matriarchies

1

: a family, group, or state headed by a matriarch

2

: a system of social organization in which descent and inheritance are traced through the female line