matripotestal

[ma-tree-poh-tes-tl, mey-]

adjective

Anthropology.

1. of or relating to the authority exercised by a mother or a mother's blood relatives.

Word History and Origins

Origin of matripotestal¹

matri- + potestal < Latin potest ( ās ) power + -al ¹

Example Sentences

Consequently we cannot, as has already been the case with the so-called levirate, assign the practice definitely either to matripotestal or patripotestal customs, for father's and mother's authority are alike overruled.

From Project Gutenberg

For our present purpose, all turns on the distinction between the matripotestal and the patripotestal family.

From Project Gutenberg

This is known as the matripotestal, as contrasted with the patripotestal, type of family.

From Project Gutenberg

When the matrilineal, matrilocal and matripotestal conditions are found together, we have mother-right at its fullest and strongest.

From Project Gutenberg