The meaning of MATERNAL is of, relating to, belonging to, or characteristic of a mother : motherly. How to use maternal in a sentence.

MATERNAL definition: of, pertaining to, having the qualities of, or befitting a mother. See examples of maternal used in a sentence.

MATERNAL definition: 1. behaving or feeling in the way that a mother does towards her child, especially in a kind…. Learn more.

1. Relating to or characteristic of a mother or motherhood; motherly: maternal instinct. 2. Inherited from one's mother: a maternal trait. 3. Related through one's mother: my maternal uncle.

Definition of maternal adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Jan 30, 2026 · maternal (comparative more maternal, superlative most maternal) Of or pertaining to a mother; having the characteristics of a mother; motherly. Antonyms: fatherly, paternal His weakness …

When we describe someone or something as maternal, we emphasize their nurturing, protective, and compassionate nature, which is often exhibited in the context of taking care of children or those in need.

maternal, adj. & n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

Maternal definition: Of, like, or characteristic of a mother or motherhood; motherly.

maternal meaning, definition, what is maternal: typical of the way a good mother behaves...: Learn more.