matronage

American  

[mey-truh-nij, ma-] / ˈmeɪ trə nɪdʒ, ˈmæ- /

noun

1. the state of being a matron.

2. guardianship by a matron.

3. matrons collectively.

---

matronage British  

/ ˈmeɪtrənɪdʒ /

noun

1. the state of being a matron

2. supervision or care by a matron

3. matrons collectively

---

Etymology

Origin of matronage

First recorded in 1765–75; matron + -age

Example Sentences

If we should suppose the Princess of Wales to have been at the head of the matronage of the land for these last ten years, what would have been the difference on public opinion!

From Project Gutenberg

I have seldom seen so many elegant and beautiful girls as sat mingled among the noble matronage of the land; and the waving plumage of feathers, which made the universal head-dress, had the most appropriate effect in setting off their charms.

From Project Gutenberg

Matronage is a profession in itself.

From Project Gutenberg

It spoke volumes for the purity and simplicity of the society that for years it had gone on thus, and no necessity for any matronage had been felt.

From Project Gutenberg

But shall not your wife, my love, one day soon be surrounded with the honour which arises neither from the toils of the mechanic who decks her apartment, nor from the silks and jewels with which your generosity adorns her, but which is attached to her place among the matronage, as the avowed wife of England's noblest earl?

From Project Gutenberg