1. showing a sense of ownership or possessiveness toward something
2. relating to or characteristic of a proprietor or ownership
Usage: formal

Examples

• She gave him a proprietorial look when other women approached.
• His proprietorial attitude toward the project annoyed his colleagues.
• The cat displayed proprietorial behavior around its favorite chair.
• He spoke with proprietorial pride about the family business.
• Her proprietorial instincts kicked in when someone touched her desk.
• The proprietorial rights of the landowner were clearly established.