Maternal

Of or pertaining to a mother; exhibiting qualities typical of a mother, such as care, nurturing, and protection; relating to motherhood or the maternal bond. The term is commonly used to describe behaviors, instincts, or roles traditionally associated with mothers, as well as lineage traced through the mother.

Maternal meaning with examples

• Her maternal instincts kicked in the moment she held her newborn baby for the first time, feeling an overwhelming urge to protect and nurture him from that moment onwards.
• The maternal care shown by the orca whales in the pod was evident, with mothers teaching their young how to hunt and survive in the vast ocean, displaying a strong bond between them.
• After years of being focused solely on her career, she found herself longing for a more maternal role, deciding to volunteer at the local children’s shelter to help those in need.
• Many animals exhibit maternal behaviors, such as birds gathering food for their chicks or elephants staying close to their calves, ensuring they are safe and well-fed as they grow.