noun
matron
A woman in charge of nursing or care in an institution.
The matron checks that every resident receives the proper care.
Etymology
Latin matrona named a married woman or respected female head of a household. The institutional title extended that supervisory household role to overseeing care or nursing.
More examples
- The hospital matron assigns nurses to each ward.
- The matron of the children's home arranges a medical checkup.
- A resident asks the matron for an extra blanket.
Forms
matron · matrons
Similar words
- head nurse
- Specifically supervises nursing staff rather than institutional care generally.
- supervisor
- Oversees work in any field, not specifically nursing or care.