tutelary

adjective

tu·te·lary | \ ˈtü-tə-ˌler-ē

, ˈtyü-\

Definition of tutelary

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 : having the guardianship of a person or a thing a tutelary goddess

2 : of or relating to a guardian

tutelary

noun

plural tutelaries

Definition of tutelary (Entry 2 of 2)

: a tutelary power (such as a deity)

Did You Know? More Example Sentences Learn More about tutelary

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Did You Know?

Adjective

Tutelary derives from the Latin noun tutelarius, meaning "guardian." "Tutelarius," in turn, was formed by combining the word tutela ("protection" or "guardian") and "-arius," a suffix that implies belonging and connection. A more familiar descendant of "tutela" in English might be "tutelage," which initially described an act or process of serving as a guardian or protector but has also come to refer to teaching or influence. If you suspect that "tutor" is also related, you are correct. "Tutelary" can also be a noun referring to a power (such as a deity) who acts as a guardian.

Examples of tutelary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective

There are comedy bits, fabulous costumes (by Toni-Leslie James) and musical interludes, some involving Marilyn Monroe (Sawyer Smith) as a tutelary spirit. — Jesse Green, New York Times, "Review: In ‘Ms. Blakk for President,’ a Winning Losing Campaign," 4 June 2019

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tutelary

Definition of tutelary

Did You Know?

Examples of tutelary in a Sentence

First Known Use of tutelary

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