paternal
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.
But an 1889 imperial house law stipulated that only men could become emperor, and only through the paternal line.
From Barron's ● Jul. 17, 2026
The researchers propose that when paternal care evolved from maternal care, it likely reflects a form of sexual selection known as 'enhanced fecundity', in which females favor males that are already caring for eggs.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 12, 2026
His paternal grandfather Mate immigrated from the former Yugoslavia in search of opportunity and was later naturalized as a U.S. citizen.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 4, 2026
Ms. Saxbe uncovers clues about how maternal and paternal brains are restructured by childbirth, correlated to a “stronger attunement” with infants.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 19, 2026
“Me loves Parpar,” said the artful one, preparing to climb the paternal knee and revel in forbidden joys.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
Vocabulary lists containing paternal
It's All in the Family
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Not Your Father's Word List: Pater, Patr
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Father's Day Words
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