Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
mater-dolorosa
noun
/ˈmeɪtər ˌdoʊləˈroʊsə/
Definition
A term used to describe a sorrowful mother, often in reference to the Virgin Mary in Christian iconography, depicting her deep sorrow during the crucifixion of Jesus.
Examples
- The artist painted a striking mater-dolorosa, capturing the essence of maternal grief.
- During the procession, the statue of the mater-dolorosa evoked deep emotions among the onlookers.
Meaning
Mater-dolorosa literally translates to ‘sorrowful mother’ in Latin. The term embodies the profound grief and compassion of a mother witnessing the suffering of her child.
Synonyms
- bereaved mother
- sorrowful mother
- mourning mother
