Definition
patresfamilias
noun
- The plural of paterfamilias; male heads of households or families, especially in ancient Rome.
Usage: Latin term; formal or historical context; Often used in legal, historical, or academic discussions of Roman society
Examples
- In ancient Rome, the patresfamilias held absolute authority over their households.
- The patresfamilias were responsible for managing property and making legal decisions for their families.
- Roman law granted patresfamilias extensive powers over family members and slaves.
- The rights of patresfamilias were gradually limited as Roman society evolved.