Finding the perfect word to describe someone who displays parental qualities can be tricky. Some synonyms for "parentlike" include nurturing, caretaking, guardianship, mentorship, and guidance. These words describe those who possess a nurturing and supportive nature towards younger individuals, or even adults that may require more guidance. The term "maternal" may be used to describe a mother-like figure, whereas "paternal" pertains to a father figure. "Avuncular" is another term for an uncle-like figure, while "sororal" is a word that defines a sisterly individual. It is important to select the appropriate word to describe someone's parenting abilities, as it can convey a sense of admiration and respect.