matricentric

9.9

A family or society where the mother is the main person in charge

adjective
/ˌmætrɪˈsɛntrɪk/

: matriarcal

The household followed a matricentric structure, with all major decisions made by the mother.

Examples

Many indigenous societies are described as matricentric rather than patriarchal.
In a matricentric society, mothers play a vital role in decision-making.
In matricentric cultures, family lines and inheritance often pass through the mother.
The matricentric family structure emphasizes the mother's influence.
In matricentric cultures, family lines and inheritance often pass through the mother.
Many indigenous societies are described as matricentric rather than patriarchal.
In a matricentric society, mothers play a vital role in decision-making.

Synonyms

matriarchal

vsmatricentric

4 7.4

A social system where women, especially mothers, have the main power

centers authority specifically on the mother rather than women in general

matriarchic

vsmatricentric

8.6

A society or family led by women where children belong to the mother's family

limits central authority to the mother rather than any female leader or lineage

Antonyms

patricentric

9.9

Giving most power to the father or male head of a family

How Mother-Centered

matricentric

9.9

egalitarian

20 7.6

patriarchal

Literature

36 7.0

Surface Forms

matricentric positive

Morphology

matricentric = centric (semi-transparent) = matri + centric

The element 'matri-' signals 'mother' but is a combining form rather than a standalone English word, so understanding requires familiarity with other matri- words; 'centric' (centered on) is clear.

Etymology

The word matricentric comes from two parts: matri- meaning 'mother' (the same root as maternal and 'mother') and -centric meaning 'center' or 'focused on'. So a matricentric family or society puts the mother at the center and makes her the person in charge.