Meaning of the word matriarchal in English

What does matriarchal mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

matriarchal

US /ˌmeɪ.triˈɑːr.kəl/
UK /ˌmeɪ.triˈɑː.kəl/

Adjective

relating to or denoting a social system in which the mother or oldest female is head of the family, and descent and inheritance are traced through the female line

Example:
Some ancient societies were believed to be matriarchal.
The family has a strong matriarchal structure, with the grandmother making most decisions.