Spanish word

materno

Pronunciation

IPA/maˈteɾno/

Meaning

  • adjectivematernal

Example

El instinto materno es muy fuerte.

The maternal instinct is very strong.

Illustration for materno (maternal)

More examples

Su afecto materno calma al bebé.

Her maternal affection calms the baby.

Core concept

Mother's protective embrace.

Common phrases

  • amor materno

    maternal love

  • cuidado materno

    maternal care

  • afecto materno

    maternal affection

Similar words

maternal: Showing instinctive, nurturing care characteristic of a mother toward others.
cariñoso: Showing warmth, fondness, and gentle kindness toward someone.
tierno: Expressing soft, gentle affection that inspires tenderness.
protector: Displaying a desire to guard or defend someone, keeping them safe.

Definition in Spanish

Perteneciente o relativo a la madre, en sentido biológico, afectivo o familiar.

Word origin

From Latin maternus (mater 'mother' + adjective-forming suffix -nus), formed to mean belonging to or characteristic of a mother.

Usage tips

  • Used for both biological and emotional motherly qualities, and in kinship phrases it can mean 'on the mother's side', with adjective agreement in gender and number (materno/materna/maternos/maternas).

Other meanings

  • on the mother's sideadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word