Tom Brokaw

My family is not only attractive - I can say that because I'm paterfamilias - but they're really smart, and they're very, very compassionate.

American Journalist

Originally implies absolute control; think of old legal systems where men ruled families.

Strongly associated with historical or traditional settings; rarely used in modern, egalitarian discussions.

Can sound archaic. Use it to evoke a sense of antiquity or in discussing ancient history.

Often used metaphorically for someone leading a group, not just a family.

Implies both seniority and respect, not just age alone.

Indicates an unofficial yet widely recognized position within a group.