paterfamilias
/ˌpeɪtərfəˈmɪliəs/
noun
- The male head of a family or household, especially in ancient Roman law or in a traditional sense.
- In ancient Rome, the paterfamilias had legal authority over his entire household.
- The role of paterfamilias has changed greatly in modern societies.
- Grandfather acted as the paterfamilias, making all major decisions for the family.
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