motherful

motherful

English

Etymology

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

Adjective

motherful (comparative more motherful, superlative most motherful)

1. Befitting a mother; motherly.
   • 1885, Kathleen O'Meara, Jeanne Marie Rendu, Queen by divine right and other tales:

     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.

   • 1905, Florence Morse Kingsley, The Resurrection of Miss Cynthia:

     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.

   • 1910, Rupert Hughes, Gift Wife:

     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, Frank Pendleton, Tim and Roy in Camp:

     As Roy is approaching the buggy where she is seated, a motherful pride leaps to her eyes. Her dear boy!

2. In the state of motherhood; pregnant.
   • 1911, Louis Mervin Maus, An army officer on leave in Japan:

     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.

3. Having a mother.
   • 1899, Mary Swift Lamson, Life and Education of Laura Dewey Bridgman, the Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Girl:

     I am motherful and sisterful; you are brotherless.