Dictionary

motherful en · ADJ

Etymology

From Middle English moderfull, equivalent to mother + -ful. Cognate with Scots moderfull (“pregnant”).

Meanings

1. Befitting a mother; motherly.
   • As Roy is approaching the buggy where she is seated, a motherful pride leaps to her eyes. Her dear boy! 1910, Frank Pendleton, Tim and Roy in Camp:
   • But Sœur Rosalie remained their mother still ; and when they returned, as many of them did — floated home by some strong current of grace — those motherful arms and that great motherful heart were open to them with a welcome made more tender by the extremity of their need. 1885, Kathleen O'Meara, Jeanne Marie Rendu, Queen by divine right and other tales:
   • But I thinked you might wish to have the card. It might help you to remember. Are you remembering such a place? " He shook his head blankly. Her eyes softened with motherful pity: " The poor effendi was so seeck! " 1910, Rupert Hughes, Gift Wife:
   • More than once, after the auspicious occasion of his first visit, did Miss Cynthia cuddle and pet the Puffer baby in motherful fashion, and the twins had established a permanent playhouse under the apple tree in the back yard. 1905, Florence Morse Kingsley, The Resurrection of Miss Cynthia:
2. In the state of motherhood; pregnant.
   • The ship's quartermaster said nothing but just laid low, while the young, motherful bride moved about the deck in an exquisite confection of old-gold and rose, followed by a train of admirers. 1911, Louis Mervin Maus, An army officer on leave in Japan:
3. Having a mother.
   • I am motherful and sisterful; you are brotherless. 1899, Mary Swift Lamson, Life and Education of Laura Dewey Bridgman, the Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Girl:

Forms