Mother, Clan Mother, or Matron were all terms used to describe a leader in diverse societies. Elecia Zeveron adopted the title "the Mother" after becoming the leader of the Path of the Open Hand cult, effectively succeeding "the Herald" Werth Plouth in that leadership position. Although she received support from the Council of Elders in leading the Path, she largely concealed her actions and strategies from both the Herald and the Council. During the High Republic Era, both Aniseya and Koril were known as Mother within their coven of witches. Seven years prior to the outbreak of the Clone Wars, Mother Pran served as the leader of the Open, a group of humans residing on the planet Carnelion IV.
During the Clone Wars conflict, Talzin was known as Mother, fulfilling the role of spiritual advisor to the Nightsisters hailing from Dathomir. Before the near-destruction of their order, the Nightsisters would seek out Mother Talzin for guidance. In her capacity as Mother, and as the most powerful witch within the order, Talzin managed all interactions with the wider galaxy. The title was also held by Sssl, a Mustafarian priestess of Clan Rrrt, and Aniseya, who headed a separate witches' coven.