The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

lineage

IPA:

Dictionary definition of lineage

A person's ancestry or descent and the sequence of ancestors from whom someone is descended.
"The lineage of the royal family can be traced back for centuries."

Detailed meaning of lineage

It can also refer to a group of people or organisms that share a common ancestor. It is often used to indicate a person's family history, including their parentage, grandparents, and other relatives. It can also be used to refer to the origin or history of a group, organization, or species. For example, a person might say that they have a lineage of farmers, meaning that their ancestors were farmers and it is a tradition that has been passed down through the generations. Or, one might say that a plant has a specific lineage, meaning that it is a descendant of certain plant species.

In general, the term implies that there is a person's ancestry or descent, and the sequence of ancestors from whom someone is descended, whether it's a person or an organism, and that it can also refer to a group of people or organisms that share a common ancestor, and that it is often used to indicate a person's family history, including their parentage, grandparents, and other relatives, and that it can also be used to refer to the origin or history of a group, organization, or species.

Example sentences containing lineage

1. She comes from a long line of royalty, tracing her lineage back to ancient kings and queens.
2. The historian researched the lineage of the royal family to document their genealogy.
3. He takes great pride in his Native American lineage and celebrates his cultural heritage.
4. The family tree displayed the lineage of ancestors spanning several generations.
5. She discovered her lineage can be traced to a famous historical figure.
6. The royal lineage carries with it certain expectations and responsibilities.

History and etymology of lineage

The noun 'lineage' has its etymology deeply rooted in Old French and Latin. It derives from the Old French word 'linage,' which comes from 'ligne,' meaning 'line' or 'family line.' In turn, 'linage' can be traced back to the Latin word 'linea,' which also means 'line' and was often used in the context of familial or ancestral lines. 'Lineage' in English, therefore, signifies a person's ancestry or descent, as well as the sequential chain of ancestors from whom someone is descended. The etymology of 'lineage' underscores its connection to the idea of tracing one's familial line through generations, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preserving one's heritage and genealogy.

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Further usage examples of lineage

1. They conducted DNA testing to learn more about their genetic lineage.
2. The historian studied the lineage of great philosophers to understand their influence.
3. He is fascinated by the lineage of thoroughbred racehorses and their pedigrees.
4. The noble lineage of the ancient dynasty was held in high regard.
5. She delved into her family's lineage to learn about their immigrant roots.
6. The preservation of cultural lineage is important in maintaining traditions.
7. They researched the lineage of the ancient artifact to determine its origin.
8. The ancestral lineage of the indigenous community is passed down through oral traditions.
9. He was proud to be a part of a lineage of talented musicians in his family.
10. The geneticist traced the lineage of a rare genetic disorder through multiple generations.
11. They explored their African lineage and connected with their ancestral roots.
12. The artist drew inspiration from her artistic lineage, carrying on the family tradition.
13. The genealogist spent years uncovering the lineage of the influential political figure.
14. The historical record provided valuable insight into the lineage of the ruling dynasty.