elephant matriarch

noun phrase

Meaning

The senior female leader of an elephant family group who makes critical decisions regarding movement, foraging, and social defense.

Examples

  • The elephant matriarch signaled the herd to stop when she sensed danger near the riverbank.
  • Young calves learn essential survival skills by observing the behavior of the elephant matriarch.

Synonyms: leader, head, guide, elder, chieftain