Maternal
/məˈtɜːrnəl/noun
Relating to a mother or motherhood.
Did you know?The term 'maternal' connects to ancient goddess worship, where mothers were revered as life-givers and protectors of the sacred.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*méh₂tēr
“The word for mother, symbolizing nurturing and life.”
Latin
Latin
mater
“Directly meaning mother, associated with nurturing and creation.”
Old French
Old French
maternelle
“Pertaining to motherhood, often used in familial contexts.”
Middle English
Middle English
maternale
“Relating to one’s mother or maternal lineage.”
Modern English
English
maternal
“Describing qualities or attributes associated with mothers.”