matriarchate

[ mey-tree-ahr-kit, -keyt ]

noun

1. a matriarchal system or community.
2. a social order formerly believed to have preceded patriarchal tribal society in the early period of human communal life, embodying rule by the mothers, or by all adult women.

matriarchate

/ -keɪt; ˈmeɪtrɪˌɑːkɪt /

noun

1. rare.
   a family or people under female domination or government

Word History and Origins

Origin of matriarchate¹

First recorded in 1880–85; matriarch + -ate ³

Example Sentences

Another myth depicts the fall of the matriarchate in the following manner: During the rule of Cecrops, a double miracle occurred.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus the matriarchate was evolved that for a long time constituted the foundation of family relations and inheritance.

From Project Gutenberg

We have already shown that this right of the first night was a custom which had its origin in the time of the matriarchate.

From Project Gutenberg

Even in modern Germany remnants of the matriarchate survive.

From Project Gutenberg

The matriarchate disappeared and the patriarchate took its place.

From Project Gutenberg