motherly
UK: ˈmʌðəli | US: ˈmʌðərli
adj. having or showing the qualities of a mother; warm, nurturing, and protective
The word "motherly" combines "mother," derived from Old English mōdor (itself from Proto-Germanic mōdēr and ultimately Proto-Indo-European méh₂tēr), with the suffix "-ly," which forms adjectives meaning "having the qualities of." The suffix traces back to Old English -līc, meaning "body" or "form," later evolving to denote characteristic traits. Together, "motherly" encapsulates the nurturing essence traditionally associated with motherhood, reflecting a linguistic blend of familial role and descriptive quality.
She gave the child a motherly hug.
His aunt spoke to him in a gentle, motherly tone.
The teacher offered motherly advice to her students.
Her motherly instincts kicked in when she saw the lost puppy.
The nurse’s motherly care comforted the patients.