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Definitions

paternal

[puh-tur-nl] / pəˈtɜr nl /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mr. Cheadle matches the subdued gravity of Ms. Edebiri’s turn, although his tender solicitude has an affecting paternal pride and warmth.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

Like me, my paternal grandfather and my father also held decent white-collar jobs throughout their working lives and invested in the the stock market.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

From coastal Jableh, her paternal family’s home, she recalls the aromas of “flavored hookah smoke, nuts toasting on carts, and boiled sweet corn.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

The others are the author’s paternal grandparents, José María and Petra Peña.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 29, 2026

“May they haf oranges and figs?” asked Mr. Bhaer, with a paternal air.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott




Vocabulary lists containing paternal