Paterfamilias

Pronunciation: /ˌpeɪtər.fəˈmɪliəs/

Definitions of paterfamilias

noun the male head of a family or household

Example Sentences

A1 The paterfamilias in the family is usually the father.

A2 In some cultures, the paterfamilias has the final say in all family matters.

B1 The role of the paterfamilias is to provide for and protect his family.

B2 The paterfamilias was responsible for managing the family's finances and assets.

C1 As the paterfamilias, he held significant power and authority within the household.

C2 The paterfamilias was expected to uphold the family's honor and reputation in society.

Examples of paterfamilias in a Sentence

formal The paterfamilias was responsible for making important decisions for the family.

informal My dad is like the paterfamilias of our family, always looking out for everyone.

slang The paterfamilias is basically the big boss of the family.

figurative In some cultures, the paterfamilias is seen as the ultimate authority figure.

Grammatical Forms of paterfamilias

• past tense: paterfamiliased
• plural: paterfamiliases
• comparative: more paterfamilias
• superlative: most paterfamilias
• present tense: paterfamilias
• future tense: will paterfamilias
• perfect tense: have paterfamiliased
• continuous tense: is paterfamiliasing
• singular: paterfamilias
• positive degree: paterfamilias
• infinitive: to paterfamilias
• gerund: paterfamiliasing
• participle: paterfamiliased

Origin and Evolution of paterfamilias

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'paterfamilias' originated from Latin

Evolution of the word: Originally used in ancient Roman law to refer to the head of a household, the term 'paterfamilias' has evolved over time to be used more broadly to describe the male head of a family or household in various cultures.