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Definition of paternally

paternally

/pəˈtɝː.nəl.i/
pa · ter · nal · ly
Adjective:paternal
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paternally Lexical Profile

paternally Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner characteristic of a caring or protective father; with fatherly affection or guidance.

Example

"The senior mentor spoke paternally to the young apprentices, offering both encouragement and practical advice."

2

Through or on the father's side of the family; by way of the male line of descent or genetic inheritance.

Example

"In that region, family estates and surnames were traditionally inherited paternally."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for paternally

• Nearby Words

paternal
paternalism
paternalistic
paternally
paternity
path
pathbreaker

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective 'paternal' and the adverbial suffix '-ly', tracing back to Late Latin 'paternalis' and Latin 'pater' meaning 'father'.

Cite this Entry

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