ancestry

noun

an·​ces·​try ˈan-ˌse-strē How to pronounce ancestry (audio)
1
: line of descent : lineage
especially : honorable, noble, or aristocratic descent
2
: persons initiating or comprising a line of descent : ancestors

Examples of ancestry in a Sentence

They claim to be of noble ancestry. a person of unknown ancestry She claims to be able to trace her ancestry all the way back to the earliest settlers.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These individuals appear to have merged with larger populations that were unrelated to the Xiongnu, many of them with European ancestry, forming a group with genetically diverse backgrounds, according to the study. Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Mar. 2025 Certain genetic variants, or mutations, are often linked to ancestry, and some have been connected to poor health outcomes. Leah Small, Scientific American, 24 Feb. 2025 Her biological family includes her father Juan Carlos Orozco, who was born in Barranquilla, Colombia; and her mother Vanessa Orozco, who is of Puerto Rican ancestry. Walter Villa, Miami Herald, 17 Feb. 2025 At-home genetic screening differs significantly from popular ancestry tests, which focus on tracing heritage or uncovering distant royal connections. Kara Markley Sterling, USA TODAY, 2 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ancestry

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ancestry was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Ancestry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ancestry. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

ancestry

noun
an·​ces·​try ˈan-ˌses-trē How to pronounce ancestry (audio)
1
: line of descent
2
: one's ancestors

More from Merriam-Webster on ancestry

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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