Definitions

1. adjective

relating to or characteristic of a mother or mothers

“The maternal love that she had for her children was truly inspiring.”

2. noun

a woman’s mother

“She had a close relationship with her maternal grandmother.”

3. noun

the mother of a person or animal

“The maternal parent of the young bird was nowhere to be seen.”

4. noun

a female parent of an animal especially one that gives birth to it

“The maternal instincts of the animal were fascinating to observe.”