Tutelary

Origin

From the Latin tutelarius "guardian" from tutela "protection"

Full definition of tutelary

Adjective

1. Having guardianship or protection.when a minor is involved, frequently tutelary powers acompany powers of attorney
• LandorThis, of all advantages, is the greatest ... the most tutelary of morals.
• 1835, Democracy in America by , chapter 6Above this race of men stands an immense and tutelary power, which takes upon itself alone to secure their gratifications and to watch over their fate.
2. Of or pertaining to guardiansthose are, of course, tutelary benefits which follow the tutelary responsibilities
3. Having the qualities of a tutor.

Noun

1. A guardian or protectorBatman served as a tutelary of Gotham City
• 1920 — F. Scott Fitzgerald, , Book IAt St. Regis' Amory stayed three days and took his exams with a scoffing confidence, then doubling back to New York to pay his tutelary visit.

Related terms

• tutor
• tutelage