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matrilineal

1 of 1adjective
/ˌmætrɪˈlɪniəl/
1

related to a cultural system where lineage and inheritance are traced through the mother's side of the family

C2
  • In matrilineal tribes, inheritance comes from mothers.
  • Leadership in matrilineal clans is often maternal.
  • She upholds matrilineal traditions for her children.
  • Property remains within the female line in matrilineal inheritance.
  • Matrilineal societies trace lineage through mothers.
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