1. social systems in which men hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property
Usage: plural of patriarchy
2. societies ruled by fathers or eldest male members of families
Usage: anthropological sense

Examples

• Many ancient civilizations were organized as patriarchies.
• The study examined how different patriarchies evolved over time.
• Feminist scholars have critiqued traditional patriarchies.
• Some cultures transitioned from patriarchies to more egalitarian systems.
• The anthropologist compared various patriarchies across different continents.
• Historical patriarchies often restricted women’s property rights.