Synonyms for
Patriarch
Definition
A male head of a family or tribe; a respected and influential older man.
Synonyms & similar words
Synonyms by register
Formal
Informal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- the patriarch of the family
- a respected patriarch
- ancient patriarch
- biblical patriarch
- patriarch and matriarch
- patriarchal society
Word family
Usage note
While 'patriarch' traditionally refers to the male head of a family or tribe, it can also be used more broadly to denote a respected elder or founder. The term carries a connotation of authority and tradition.
Example sentences
- The patriarch of the tribe was the wisest person I ever met.
- My dad is the patriarch of our family and we all respect him.
- The patriarch of the church was a kind and generous man.
- The patriarch of the family passed down his wisdom to his children and grandchildren.
- The patriarchal system favored men over women in many societies.
Quotes
The father is always a Republican toward his son, and his mother's always a Democrat. - Robert Frost
I'm a patriarchal man, but not Hitlerian. - Silvio Berlusconi
I think we must quote whenever we feel that the allusion is interesting or helpful or amusing. - Cliff Fadiman