Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

matriline

noun

/ˈmætrɪˌlaɪn/

Definition

A system of lineage in which ancestry is traced through the mother’s line rather than the father’s.

Examples

In many Indigenous cultures, inheritance is often matriline, meaning property and titles are passed down through the female members of the family.
The matrilineal society focused on the roles and responsibilities of women, showcasing their influence within the community.

Meaning

Matriline refers to a method of determining family lineage and inheritance that follows the maternal line, emphasizing the ancestry and heritage that comes from one’s mother.