matronly

[ mey-truhn-lee ]

adjective

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

ˈmatronly

/ 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

Derived Forms

• ˈmatronliness, noun

Other Words From

• matron·li·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of matronly¹

First recorded in 1650–60; matron + -ly

Example Sentences

The Don in Welsh mythology was also often associated with her matronly Irish counterpart.

From Realm of History

"It's not fair, Lucy," said Mrs. Haggard reprovingly, with an attempt at matronly dignity.

From Project Gutenberg

You look the part; there is a sort of matronly dignity about you, Georgie, that I could never hope to attain.

From Project Gutenberg

Hera was therefore the goddess who presided over human marriages, and was the type of matronly virtue and dignity.

From Project Gutenberg

The two daughters went over to the tea tabouret, where a matronly maid was busying with the service.

From Project Gutenberg

Her address to them was brief and matronly, yet spoken with so much feeling as found its way to every bosom.

From Project Gutenberg