1. a woman who is the head of a family or tribe
2. an older woman who is respected and influential in a family or community

Examples

• The grandmother served as the matriarch of the large extended family.
• After her husband’s death, she became the matriarch who made all major decisions.
• The tribal matriarch passed down ancient traditions to younger generations.
• She was considered the matriarch of the local arts community.
• The family matriarch organized every holiday gathering for decades.
• As the eldest daughter, she inherited the role of matriarch.
• The matriarch’s wisdom guided the family through difficult times.