Spanish word

paternal

Pronunciation

IPA/pateɾˈnal/

Meaning

  • adjectivefatherly

Example

Ella mostró una actitud paternal con los bebés.

She showed a fatherly attitude toward the babies.

Illustration for paternal (fatherly)

More examples

Su voz paternal calmó al niño cuando lloraba.

Her fatherly voice calmed the boy when he was crying.

Core concept

A father shielding a child with his arm.

Common phrases

  • amor paternal

    fatherly love

  • instinto paternal

    fatherly instinct

  • cuidado paternal

    fatherly care

Similar words

paterno: Pertains to a father or to fatherhood; indicates a fatherly relation.
protector: Acts to keep someone safe, actively guarding them from danger or difficulty.
cariñoso: Shows warm, tender affection and gentle, caring behavior toward others.
cuidadoso: Shows careful attention to details and takes cautious, thorough care.

Definition in Spanish

Que corresponde a la manera de actuar o sentir típica de un padre, especialmente en cuanto a cuidado, protección y guía.

Word origin

Spanish paternal ultimately comes from Latin pater 'father' combined with the adjectival suffix -alis through Late Latin paternalis.

Usage tips

  • When applied to institutions or officials, paternal can be approving as caring or critical as patronizing, so context determines whether it sounds positive or condescending.

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word