pedigree

noun

ped·​i·​gree ˈpe-də-ˌgrē How to pronounce pedigree (audio)
1
: a register recording a line of ancestors
The pedigree traces the family back to the 18th century.
2
a
: an ancestral line : lineage
That horse has an impressive pedigree.
b
: the origin and the history of something
Democracy's pedigree stretches back to ancient Greece.
broadly : background, history
3
a
: a distinguished ancestry
actions spoke louder than pedigrees in the trenchesDixon Wecter
b
: the recorded purity of breed of an individual or strain
vouch for a horse's pedigree
pedigreed adjective
or pedigree

Examples of pedigree in a Sentence

That horse has an impressive pedigree. What is the dog's pedigree? The puppy came with papers proving its pedigree. Democracy is an idea with a pedigree stretching back to ancient Greece. The company has an excellent pedigree with over a century in the business.
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.
While appetites have eased across the industry as most players cut back on spending, the bet Condé Nast is making is that the company’s pedigree will still enable it to cut a desirable figure in a crowded marketplace. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 25 Oct. 2024 Teacup October 10, Peacock Even after two episodes premiered at Fantastic Fest, little is known about this promising new Peacock offering, but the pedigree is undeniably impressive. Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 23 Oct. 2024 Jackman, one of the most accomplished actors of his generation, brings an impressive awards pedigree to his resume. Clayton Davis, Variety, 25 Sep. 2024 The advantages for buyers include gaining an Oceanco pedigree for the vessel, but with a shorter build time and a range of interiors and exteriors that the client chooses. Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pedigree 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pedegru, from Anglo-French pé de grue, literally, crane's foot; from the shape made by the lines of a genealogical chart

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pedigree was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near pedigree

Cite this Entry

“Pedigree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pedigree. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pedigree

noun
ped·​i·​gree ˈped-ə-ˌgrē How to pronounce pedigree (audio)
1
: a table or list showing the line of ancestors of a person or animal
2
: an ancestral line : lineage
3
: purity of breed recorded by a pedigree
pedigreed adjective

Medical Definition

pedigree

noun
ped·​i·​gree ˈped-ə-ˌgrē How to pronounce pedigree (audio)
: a record of the ancestry of an individual
the pedigree of a diabetic patient

More from Merriam-Webster on pedigree

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