matronly
Like a dowager
Matronly describes the appearance or manner associated with a mature, respectable woman—typically suggesting someone middle-aged or older who carries herself with dignity but without glamour.
The word often implies a heavyset or unfashionable look: She wore a matronly floral dress.
Though sometimes used neutrally to mean motherly or nurturing, matronly frequently carries unflattering connotations when applied to a woman's figure or style.
Agreeably fat, well-filled
- stoutHeavy, dark brewed beverage
- frumpyDrab and unstylish
- dowdyUnstylish in appearance
- shapelessLacking distinct structure
homely · plain · unfashionable · sensible · practical · modest · full-figured · ample
Composed and respectable
- respectableWorthy of regard
- properSocially appropriate
- composedCalm and self-possessed
- sedateCalm and unhurried
staid · reserved · decorous · poised · gracious · refined · genteel · ladylike
In life's middle decades
- matureFully grown or developed
- olderMore advanced in age
- seasonedFlavored or battle-tested
- experiencedHaving practical knowledge gained
graying · aging · elderly · senior · grown · adult · worldly · settled
Exerting strong authority
- sternStrict or ship's aft
- formidableInspiring fear or respect
- supervisingDirecting and monitoring work
- managingDirecting or controlling something
no-nonsense · bossy · headmistress · governess · housekeeper · chaperone · watchful · strict
Showing kind concern
- warmModerately heated, or friendly
- protectiveServing to guard
- compassionateShowing concern for sufferers
- affectionateShowing warm regard
tender · supportive · kindhearted · devoted · attentive · gentle · soothing · comforting
plump
Agreeably fat, well-filled
shapeless · homely · plain · unfashionable · sensible · practical · modest · full-figured · ample · portly
dignified
Composed and respectable
- respectableWorthy of regard
- properSocially appropriate
- composedCalm and self-possessed
sedate · staid · reserved · decorous · poised · gracious · refined · genteel · ladylike · demure
middle-aged
In life's middle decades
experienced · graying · aging · elderly · senior · grown · adult · worldly · settled · established
commanding
Exerting strong authority
- sternStrict or ship's aft
- formidableInspiring fear or respect
- supervisingDirecting and monitoring work
managing · no-nonsense · bossy · headmistress · governess · housekeeper · chaperone · watchful · strict · firm
caring
Showing kind concern
- warmModerately heated, or friendly
- protectiveServing to guard
- compassionateShowing concern for sufferers
affectionate · tender · supportive · kindhearted · devoted · attentive · gentle · soothing · comforting · doting
matronlygirlish
Youthfully feminine in manner
youthful · immature · juvenile · childlike · adolescent
matronlysexy
Physically arousing
provocative · flirtatious · alluring · glamorous · fashionable
- matron of honorMarried principal wedding attendant