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.

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

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

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

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