patrilocal

adjective

pat·​ri·​local
¦pa‧trə,
¦pā‧trə+
: located at or centered around the residence of the husband's family or tribe
a patrilocal marriage
contrasted with matrilocal
compare avunculocal, neolocal

Word History

Etymology

patr- + local

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near patrilocal

Cite this Entry

“Patrilocal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/patrilocal. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!