Patriarch (Noun)
Meaning 1
Any of the early biblical characters regarded as fathers of the human race.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The patriarch Abraham is considered the father of the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths.
- According to biblical tradition, the patriarch Noah built an ark to save his family and two of every kind of animal from a worldwide flood.
- The patriarch Jacob, also known as Israel, was the son of Isaac and the grandson of Abraham.
- The patriarch Isaac was the son of Abraham and the father of Esau and Jacob.
- The story of the patriarch Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers, is one of the most well-known tales in the Bible.
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Meaning 2
The male head of family or tribe.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The elderly man was revered as the patriarch of the family, known for his wisdom and leadership.
- In many African cultures, the patriarch is responsible for making important decisions for the family and tribe.
- As the patriarch of the family, he was expected to provide for his relatives and protect them from harm.
- The tribe's patriarch, a wise and aged leader, was chosen to negotiate with neighboring tribes.
- The patriarch of the wealthy family was known for his philanthropy and generosity to his community.
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Meaning 3
A man who is older and higher in rank than yourself.
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The patriarch of our family, my grandfather, was a wise and respected leader who always had a kind word for everyone.
- As a young officer, I looked up to the patriarch of our department, a seasoned veteran who had served for over 20 years.
- The patriarch of the company, the CEO, was a demanding but fair boss who expected nothing but the best from his employees.
- In our community, the patriarch was a revered elder who was sought out for guidance and advice on matters of importance.
- The patriarch of the family business, my uncle, was a shrewd entrepreneur who had built the company from the ground up through hard work and determination.
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Meaning 4
Title for the heads of the Eastern Orthodox Churches (in Istanbul and Alexandria and Moscow and Jerusalem).
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- The patriarch of Constantinople is considered the spiritual leader of the Eastern Orthodox Churches worldwide.
- The patriarch of Alexandria is the head of the Greek Orthodox Church of Alexandria, one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.
- The patriarch of Moscow holds significant influence over the Russian Orthodox Church and plays a major role in the country's religious affairs.
- The patriarch of Jerusalem is responsible for the well-being of the Orthodox Christians in the Holy Land and the surrounding regions.
- The title of patriarch is bestowed upon these spiritual leaders as a sign of respect and recognition of their authority within the Eastern Orthodox tradition.