matrilinear, a.
(mætrɪˈlɪnɪə(r))
[f. matri- + linear a.]
= matrilineal a.
| 1910 Manch. Guardian 8 Aug. 5 It is said that they [sc. the Choctaw Indians] were governed by chiefs who succeeded by matrilinear descent. 1913 B. S. Phillpotts Kindred & Clan 275 Kindreds organized on matrilinear or on patrilinear lines. 1926 Contemp. Rev. Apr. 528 That these powers are related to a previous system of matrilinear descent there can be no doubt. 1950 Darlington & Mather Genes, Plants & People v. 57 The historic change from matrilinear to patrilinear inheritance has also led to important conflicts. |