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patriarchy

The definition of a patriarchy is a system of society where the men are the head-of-the-household, carry the most power and where the family lineage passes on through men.

(noun)

An example of a patriarchy society is where men hold the control and make all the rules and women stay home and care for the kids.
An example of a patriarchy is when the family name comes from the man in the family.

See patriarchy in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. patriarchies

a form of social organization in which the father or the eldest male is recognized as the head of the family or tribe, descent and kinship being traced through the male line
government, rule, or domination by men, as in a family or tribe

Origin: Gr patriarchia: see patriarch

Related Forms:

patriarchic adjective

See patriarchy in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. pa·tri·ar·chies In both senses also called patriarchate.

A social system in which the father is the head of the family and men have authority over women and children.
A family, community, or society based on this system or governed by men.

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