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Patriarch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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patriarch

[หˆpeษชtriษ‘หrk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

family leader

A patriarch is the male head of a family or tribe, typically one who is respected and honored for his wisdom and leadership. In some cultures, the patriarch holds significant power and authority over family affairs and decision-making.

Synonyms

elder, head of the family, leader.

Examples of usage

  • The patriarch of the family made the final decision on important matters.
  • In traditional societies, the patriarch is responsible for providing for and protecting his family.
Context #2 | Noun

religious leader

In religious contexts, a patriarch is a title given to certain high-ranking bishops in the Eastern Orthodox Church. These patriarchs oversee specific regions and have authority over the clergy and faithful within their jurisdiction.

Synonyms

bishop, clergy leader, spiritual head.

Examples of usage

  • The patriarch of Constantinople is one of the most prominent figures in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
  • The patriarchs play a crucial role in the governance and spiritual guidance of their respective churches.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, patriarchs were seen as crucial figures in maintaining family honor and legacy.
  • The concept of patriarchy, where males hold primary power, has influenced numerous societal structures throughout history.
  • In literature, patriarchs often symbolize authority and tradition, sometimes challenged by modern characters.

Historical Context

  • Throughout most of history, many societies practiced patriarchal systems where men held more power than women.
  • In feudal societies, patriarchs were responsible for the protection and decisions of their dependents, shaping their communities.
  • The decline of patriarchal norms in recent decades has led to discussions about gender roles and equality.

Psychology

  • The presence of a patriarch can significantly influence family dynamics and children's development.
  • Some psychological theories explore how patriarchal figures impact the self-esteem and identity of family members.
  • The role of a patriarch may lead to traditional expectations that can cause stress and conflict within families.

Literature

  • Patriarchs in novels often embody the themes of power, control, and family loyalty, influencing the plot and character development.
  • Many classic literary works feature patriarchal figures that represent outdated values and face rebellion from younger characters.
  • Prominent authors, like William Faulkner and Chinua Achebe, have depicted complex patriarchs that reveal societal struggles.

Origin of 'patriarch'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek 'patriarches', meaning 'father' or 'ruler of a family'.
  • It was originally used in ancient societies to refer to the male head of a family or tribe.
  • In religious contexts, the term often refers to biblical figures such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

The word 'patriarch' comes from the Greek words 'patriarkhฤ“s', which combines 'patฤ“r' meaning 'father' and 'arkhล' meaning 'to rule'. The term originally referred to the male head of a family or clan in ancient societies. Over time, it also came to be used in religious contexts to denote high-ranking bishops. The concept of patriarchy, or male dominance in society, is often associated with the idea of a patriarchal family structure.

See also: patriarchal, patriarchs.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,670, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.