matriarchy

noun

ma·​tri·​ar·​chy ˈmā-trē-ˌär-kē How to pronounce matriarchy (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See all Example Sentences for matriarchy 

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of matriarchy was in 1885

Dictionary Entries Near matriarchy

Cite this Entry

“Matriarchy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/matriarchy. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

matriarchy

noun
ma·​tri·​ar·​chy ˈmā-trē-ˌär-kē How to pronounce matriarchy (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on matriarchy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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