paternalistic
Americanadjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of paternalistic
Explanation
When someone in authority acts like they're your parent, making decisions for you rather than allowing you to be responsible for yourself, you can describe them as paternalistic. Sometimes people object to laws requiring them to wear seatbelts or motorcycle helmets, arguing that they're paternalistic — instead of letting you make the choice for yourself, you're forced to protect yourself from harm. Most citizens are fine with this kind of government regulation but would object to more extreme versions of paternalistic laws. The word comes from a root meaning "father," and it originally described a type of governing "as by a father over his children."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"It is never paternalistic to insist that countries treat their citizens well," he said.
From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026
The FDA’s rationale echoes the paternalistic mindset of Dr. Prasad.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026
It said the current system requiring approval from two doctors was "anachronistic, paternalistic and failed to reflect best modern practice".
From BBC • Nov. 14, 2025
“I know for some women that’s very scary and all, but it’s almost a paternalistic kind of view.”
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2024
I, too, had been susceptible to paternalistic British colonialism and the appeal of being perceived by whites as “cultured” and “progressive” and “civilized.”
From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
