Alternative form of matrilineal. [(anthropology) Tracing descent only through female ancestors.]
Used in a Sentence
matrilinear
Definition, parts of speech, synonyms, and sentence examples for matrilinear.
Editorial note
We have technology to measure patrilinear ancestry through the Y chromosome, and matrilinear ancestry through the mitochondrial DNA.
Examples3
Definitions1
Parts of speech1
Quick take
Alternative form of matrilineal. [(anthropology) Tracing descent only through female ancestors.]
Meaning at a glance
The clearest senses and uses of matrilinear gathered in one view.
Definitions
Core meanings and parts of speech for matrilinear.
adjective
Alternative form of matrilineal. [(anthropology) Tracing descent only through female ancestors.]
See also: direct, lineal, matrilineal
Example sentences
We have technology to measure patrilinear ancestry through the Y chromosome, and matrilinear ancestry through the mitochondrial DNA.
Wikipedia goes even further than my hedged and uninformed "very few" statement and says: There are no known societies that are unambiguously matriarchal,[2][3][4][5][6][7][8] although there are a number of attested matrilinear, matrilocal and avunculocal societies, especially among indigenous peoples of Asia and Africa,[9] such as those of the Basques, Minangkabau, Mosuo, Berbers or Tuareg.
Quote examples
Wikipedia goes even further than my hedged and uninformed "very few" statement and says: There are no known societies that are unambiguously matriarchal,[2][3][4][5][6][7][8] although there are a number of attested matrilinear, matrilocal and avunculocal societies, especially among indigenous peoples of Asia and Africa,[9] such as those of the Basques, Minangkabau, Mosuo, Berbers or Tuareg.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers drawn from the clearest meanings and examples for this word.
How do you use matrilinear in a sentence?
We have technology to measure patrilinear ancestry through the Y chromosome, and matrilinear ancestry through the mitochondrial DNA.
What does matrilinear mean?
Alternative form of matrilineal. [(anthropology) Tracing descent only through female ancestors.]
What part of speech is matrilinear?
matrilinear is commonly used as adjective.