Parental

Definition

Parental pertains to or is characteristic of a parent or parents.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective: parental (e.g., "Parental guidance is advised.")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈrɛntəl/
• Respelling: puh-RENT-uhl (with "puh" as in "cup," "RENT" as in "rent," and "uhl" as in "pull")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈrɛntəl/
• Respelling: puh-RENT-uhl (similar to American English, with "puh" as in "cup," "RENT" as in "rent," and "uhl" as in "pull")

In both dialects, "parental" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "RENT." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the "RENT" part followed by "uhl."

Etymology

The word "parental" comes from the Latin word "parentalis", derived from "parens" meaning "parent". It has been used in the English language since the early 17th century to describe things pertaining to parents or the role of a parent.

Derivatives

• Parentally
• Parent
• Parenthood
• Parenting
• Parentage

Synonyms

• Maternal
• Paternal
• Ancestral

Antonyms

• Offspring
• Child
• Descendant

Usage

"Parental" is often used in contexts where the role, authority, or characteristics of a parent are being highlighted or discussed. It may be seen in terms like "parental guidance", "parental rights", or "parental control".

Related Terms

• Family
• Guardian
• Caretaker
• Progenitor
• Ancestor

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Relating to or characteristic of one's parents or the role of a parent.
• Example: "She showed great parental affection towards her children."

• Denoting something from which a plant or animal is descended; relating to the parent plant or animal of a particular offspring.
• Example: "The seed's parental generation was robust."

• Referring to the control or authority that parents have over their children or their children's actions and behavior.
• Example: "The game requires parental consent to play."