paternal

Definition

Of or pertaining to one's father, his genes, his relatives, or his side of a family.

Etymology

From Old French paternal (“of a father”) (12th c.), from Vulgar Latin paternālis (“paternal”), from Latin paternus (“of or pertaining to a father, paternal”), from pater (“father”).

Example Sentences

• "paternal grandfather"
• "It was with a natural touch of pride that Norbourne Courtenaye paced his paternal hall, while waiting for his uncle, with whom he was going to ride."
• "The eldest son was usually given the name of his paternal grandfather, later children those of other relatives."