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View synonyms for paternalistic

paternalistic

[ puh-tur-nl-is-tik ]

adjective

  1. (of governance, management, or behavior) based in a system positing that authority knows best; outwardly benevolent, but often in a condescending or controlling way:

    In the paternalistic model of medicine, the doctor adopts the role of decision-maker and dictates what would be best for the patient.

    We sought a less paternalistic and more enabling role for the school board, one guided by community engagement and support.

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Other Words From

  • pa·ter·nal·is·ti·cal·ly adverb

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Word History and Origins

Origin of paternalistic1

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