parental

American  

[puh-ren-tl] / pəˈrɛn tl /

adjective

1. of or relating to a parent.

2. proper to or characteristic of a parent.

   parental feelings.

3. having the relation of a parent

4. Genetics. pertaining to the sequence of generations preceding the filial generation, each generation being designated by a P followed by a subscript number indicating its place in the sequence.

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noun

1. Also called parental unit.  Informal. one's parent.

   I'm headed for a vacation with the parentals.

Other Word Forms

• interparental adjective
• nonparental adjective
• nonparentally adverb
• parentally adverb
• postparental adjective
• unparental adjective
• unparentally adverb

Etymology

Origin of parental

First recorded in 1615–25; from Latin parentālis “of, belonging to parents,” equivalent to parent- “parent” + -ālis adjective suffix; parent, -al ¹

Example Sentences

That sends a message that the foster-care system offers an exit from parental authority.

From The Wall Street Journal

Because many offspring hatched together and reproduction occurred more frequently than in mammals, this strategy increased the odds that at least some would survive, without requiring prolonged parental investment.

From Science Daily

It simply delays the moment those skills are required, often until parental influence has weakened.

From The Wall Street Journal

While some states still enforce these laws, they often include exceptions, including parental abandonment or failure to provide support, which would relieve the adult children of any liability.

From MarketWatch

Robyn said she is discussing an online parental support group with some who contacted her but is pleased she spoke out so others know they are "not alone".

From BBC

Related Words

• fatherly
• maternal
• paternal