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Definition of paternalistic

paternalistic

/pəˌtɜːr.nəˈlɪs.tɪk/
pa · ter · nal · is · tic
Adverb:paternalistically
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paternalistic Lexical Profile

paternalistic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or characterized by the policy or practice of managing individuals, organizations, or nations in the manner of a father dealing with his children, especially by supplying their needs while restricting their autonomy and responsibilities.

Example

"Critics argued that the company's paternalistic policies treated adult employees like incapable children."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for paternalistic
Antonyms
View all antonyms for paternalistic

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'paternalistic' with 'paternal': 'paternal' simply means relating to a father or fatherly in a warm, neutral sense, whereas 'paternalistic' carries a negative connotation of overbearing control disguised as benevolence.

• Rhymes for paternalistic

• Nearby Words

patently
paternal
paternalism
paternalistic
paternally
paternity
path

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 19th century from 'paternalism' + '-ic', ultimately tracing back to Latin 'paternus' ('fatherly'), from 'pater' ('father').

Cite this Entry

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