parental

UK: pəˈrɛnt(ə)l | US: pəˈrɛnt(ə)l

Definition
  1. adj. relating to or characteristic of a parent or parents

  2. adj. acting as a parent; protective or nurturing

Structure
parent <mother/father>al <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "parental" derives from the Latin "parent-" (stem of "parens"), meaning "mother" or "father," combined with the adjectival suffix "-al" (from Latin "-alis"). The suffix "-al" transforms the noun "parent" into an adjective, indicating a relationship or quality. Over time, "parental" evolved in English to describe not only biological ties but also behaviors or roles associated with caregiving and protection.

Examples
  1. Parental guidance is recommended for young children watching this film.

  2. She appreciated her parents' parental support during her studies.

  3. The school encourages parental involvement in student activities.

  4. His parental instincts kicked in when he saw the child in danger.

  5. The study examined the effects of parental absence on child development.