Ancestor – Definition & Meaning

Ancestor is a term that is frequently used in discussions about genealogy, family history, and cultural heritage. It refers to a person from whom one is descended, typically someone who lived in the past and who is a part of one’s family tree. Ancestors can be biological or cultural, and they play an important role in shaping our identities and understanding our place in the world.

Definitions

An ancestor is defined as a person from whom one is descended, typically someone who lived in the past. Ancestors can also refer to a person’s forebears, forefathers, or progenitors.

Origin

The word ancestor comes from the Latin word “antecessor,” which means “predecessor” or “forefather.” The word was first used in English in the 14th century and has been in use ever since.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an ancestor is “a person from whom one is descended, especially one more remote than a grandparent; a forefather or foremother.” Merriam-Webster defines an ancestor as “one from whom a person is descended and who is usually more remote in the line of descent than a grandparent.” The Cambridge English Dictionary defines an ancestor as “a person related to you who lived a long time ago.”

Associations

Ancestors are often associated with family history, genealogy, and cultural heritage. They can also be associated with traditions, customs, and beliefs that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Synonyms

Synonyms for ancestor include forebear, forefather, foremother, progenitor, antecedent, precursor, and predecessor.

Antonyms

Antonyms for ancestor include descendant, offspring, posterity, and progeny.

The same root words

The same root words for ancestor include ancestry, ancestral, and antecedent.

Example Sentences

1. My ancestors came to this country in the 1800s.
2. It’s important to learn about your ancestors and where you come from.
3. She traced her family tree back several generations to find her ancestors.
4. The customs and traditions of our ancestors are still important to our family today.
5. He was proud of his ancestors and the legacy they left behind.