German word

elterlich

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈɛltɐlɪç/

Meaning

  • adjectiveparental

Example

Für die Reise brauchen wir elterliche Zustimmung.

For the trip, we need parental consent.

Illustration for elterlich (parental)

More examples

Die elterlichen Rechte der Kinder werden gesetzlich geschützt.

The parental rights of children are protected by law.

Core concept

A parent standing behind a child, responsible for choices, permissions, and duties affecting the child's life.

Common phrases

  • elterliche Zustimmung

    parental consent

  • elterliche Autorität

    parental authority

  • elterliche Sorge

    parental care

Similar words

mütterlich: Having the qualities, warmth, or care traditionally associated with a mother.
väterlich: Having the qualities, guidance, or care traditionally associated with a father.
familiär: Relating to family life, close family ties, or a homelike atmosphere.

Definition in German

Elterlich beschreibt Dinge oder Maßnahmen, die Eltern betreffen oder von Eltern ausgeübt werden, etwa Rechte, Pflichten oder Entscheidungen.

Word origin

Elterlich is formed from Eltern ('parents') and the adjective suffix -lich, which means 'relating to' or 'having the character of'.

Usage tips

  • Elterlich is more formal and institutional than everyday phrases such as meine Eltern, and it is especially common in legal or administrative wording.

Opposites

  • elternlosparentlessadjective

Related words

  • Elternteilparentnoun
  • Elternschaftparenthoodnoun
  • Elternhausparents' homenoun

Word lists with this word