motherful

comparative more motherful · superlative most motherful

1. Befitting a mother; motherly.

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

   1910, Frank Pendleton, Tim and Roy in Camp

   3 more examples

   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.

   1885, Kathleen O'Meara, Jeanne Marie Rendu, Queen by divine right and other tales

   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.

   1905, Florence Morse Kingsley, The Resurrection of Miss Cynthia

   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, Rupert Hughes, Gift Wife

2. In the state of motherhood; pregnant.

   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.

   1911, Louis Mervin Maus, An army officer on leave in Japan

3. Having a mother.

   I am motherful and sisterful; you are brotherless.

   1899, Mary Swift Lamson, Life and Education of Laura Dewey Bridgman, the Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Girl