unpaternal

/ʌnˈpætərnəl/

Definitions

1. adjective

Lacking or failing to show the qualities or characteristics traditionally associated with a father.

“The social worker noted that the unpaternal attitude of the child’s mother towards her daughter was affecting her development.”

2. noun

A lack or absence of paternal qualities or characteristics.

“The researcher studied the effects of unpaternalism on family dynamics in non-traditional households.”

Synonyms

  • unfatherly
  • unmaternal
  • unparental

Antonyms

  • maternal
  • parental
  • paternal