Agnatic is a term that is used to describe a system of kinship that is based on the male line of descent. It is a term that is often used in anthropology and genealogy to describe the relationships between family members.
Definitions
Agnatic is defined as “relating to or tracing descent through the male line” according to the Oxford English Dictionary. It is also defined as “relating to or based on male descent” according to Merriam-Webster.
Origin
The term agnatic is derived from the Latin word “agnatus,” which means “related on the father’s side.” The word was first used in English in the early 19th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, agnatic is defined as “relating to or tracing descent through the male line.” In Merriam-Webster, it is defined as “relating to or based on male descent.” In the Cambridge Dictionary, it is defined as “related by male descent.”
Associations
Agnatic kinship is often associated with patriarchal societies, where the male is considered the head of the household and the family name is passed down through the male line. It is also associated with inheritance laws that favor male heirs.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for agnatic include patrilineal, male-line, and father’s side.
Antonyms
Antonyms for agnatic include matrilineal, mother’s side, and cognatic.
The same root words
The word agnatic is derived from the Latin word “agnatus,” which means “related on the father’s side.” Other words that are derived from this root include agnation, agnomen, and agnate.
Example Sentences
- In agnatic kinship systems, the family name is passed down through the male line.
- The inheritance laws in this society favor agnatic heirs.
- The agnatic relationships between the members of this family are very important.
- This society has a strong agnatic tradition, where the male is considered the head of the household.
- The agnatic descent of this family can be traced back several generations.