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Definition of fatherly

fatherly

/ˈfɑː.ðɚ.li/
fa · ther · ly
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fatherly Lexical Profile

fatherly Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characteristic of or befitting a kind, protective, and affectionate father.

Example

"The retired professor offered some fatherly advice to the anxious graduate student before her presentation."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for fatherly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for fatherly

Word Nuance & Usage

Although ending in '-ly', 'fatherly' is an adjective rather than an adverb (to express an adverbial meaning, use the phrase 'in a fatherly way'). Unlike 'paternal', which is often used in formal, legal, or biological contexts, 'fatherly' emphasizes warm, protective, and affectionate emotional qualities.

• Rhymes for fatherly

• Nearby Words

fatherlessness
fatherlike
fatherliness
fatherly
fathom
fathomable
fathomless

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'fæderlic', meaning 'paternal' or 'befitting a father', formed from 'fæder' (father) and '-lic' (-ly).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fatherly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fatherly
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