matriarchy Hear it!

matriarchy Definition

ma·tri·archy (-är′kē)

noun pl. -·arch′·ies

  1. a form of social organization in which the mother is recognized as the head of the family or tribe, descent and kinship being traced through the mother
  2. government, rule, or domination by women

Etymology: matri- + -archy

matriarchy Related Forms
ma′·tri·ar′chic adjective
matriarchy Usage Examples

Adjective modifier

  • ancient: Unfortunately, her appeals to the ' ancient matriarchy ' are ahistorical, and her analysis of the Ring itself simple.