matronly

American  

[mey-truhn-lee] / ˈmeɪ trən li /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or having the characteristics of a matron; maturely dignified; stately.

2. characteristic of or suitable for a matron.

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matronly British  

/ ˈmeɪtrənlɪ /

adjective

1. of, characteristic of, or suitable for a matron; staid and dignified in a manner associated with a middle-aged, usually plump, woman

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Other Word Forms

• matronliness
  noun

Etymology

Origin of matronly

First recorded in 1650–60; matron + -ly

Explanation

If someone describes you as matronly, they think you look or act like a middle-aged woman. So, if someone calls your dress matronly and you think it's hip, you may be sadly mistaken. It's never a compliment to call someone matronly, as it brings to mind all kinds of stereotypes about being an adult woman, particularly one who's married and has kids. In fact, matronly comes from matron, which today primarily means "female prison warden," but which once meant "married woman," especially one who is respectable, unadventurous, and mature.

Example Sentences

Manic, glitch-like tics betray his Suzannah’s matronly composition, and she shocks herself with her indignity.

From New York Times • Mar. 20, 2024

She treats herself to a belted dress accurately described as Shirley Temple-meets-not-fully-deprogrammed-Wednesday Addams chic – one that she wears well, but the 20-something boutique clerk makes her question by presenting her with matronly alternatives.

From Salon • Aug. 6, 2023

They were often greeted with a hug from the matronly owner.

From Los Angeles Times • May 30, 2023

The dress was off the shoulder; she is clearly attuned to the small details that ensure that, at 71, she never looks matronly.

From Washington Post • Apr. 26, 2023

I am calm; I regard the antics of my fellow students, who act like the textbook, with a combination of scientific curiosity and almost matronly indulgence.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood