D defs.my
Entry 3 senses Webster, 1913

matriarch

/māt'-rē-ärkˌ/ · ma·tri·arch · IPA /ˈmeɪtɹiɑɹk/
01 n. The mother and ruler of a family or of her descendants; a ruler by maternal right.
  1. 1.
    The mother and ruler of a family or of her descendants; a ruler by maternal right.
  2. 2.
    A woman who dominates or is the most important member of a group or organization; in businesses, often the founder or owner of the largest interest.
  3. 3.
    A venerated old woman.