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Ancestor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ancestor

[หˆรฆnหŒsesยทtษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

family history

An ancestor is a person in your family who lived before you, such as your great-grandparents or even further back. They are part of your family tree and are connected to you by blood or marriage.

Synonyms

forebear, forefather, predecessor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ancestor

Used to refer to someone from whom you are directly descended, typically many generations back. Common in discussions about family history and lineage.

  • My ancestors came from Ireland
  • The traditions have been passed down from our ancestors
forebear

Often used in a more formal or literary context to talk about one's ancestors, typically with a sense of respect or admiration.

  • Our forebears sacrificed a lot to build this country
  • He followed in the footsteps of his forebears
predecessor

Used to refer to someone who held a position or role before someone else. Common in professional or official contexts.

  • The new CEO is continuing the policies of her predecessor
  • His predecessors set the foundation for the company's success
forefather

Typically used to refer to men who were founders or early leaders of a family, community, or nation. Often implies a sense of reverence or honor.

  • The forefathers of our nation laid out these principles
  • We must honor the wisdom of our forefathers

Examples of usage

  • My ancestors came from Ireland.
  • I feel a strong connection to my ancestors.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

In biology, an ancestor is an organism from which others have evolved. It is a species or group of species from which modern organisms have descended.

Synonyms

forebear, forerunner, precursor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ancestor

Use this word when talking about someone from whom you are directly descended, especially when referring to family lineage or genealogy.

  • My ancestors immigrated to this country over 100 years ago
  • We found a photo of our ancestors in the attic
forebear

This word is similar to 'ancestor' but often used in more formal contexts or historical discussions. It carries a sense of respect and historical significance.

  • Our forebears fought bravely for freedom
  • She takes great pride in the achievements of her forebears
precursor

Use this word for something that existed before and led to the development of another thing. It is often used in scientific, technological, or artistic contexts.

  • The telegraph was a precursor to modern communication systems
  • Gothic architecture was a precursor to modern design trends
forerunner

This word is used to describe someone or something that came before another person or thing and over time led to the latter's development. It's often used in terms of innovation and progression.

  • The typewriter was the forerunner of modern computers
  • Early models of the airplane served as forerunners to the sophisticated jets we use today

Examples of usage

  • The ancient fish is considered an ancestor of modern amphibians.
  • The chimpanzee is believed to be an ancestor of humans.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'ancestor'

The word 'ancestor' has its roots in the Latin word 'antecessor', which means 'predecessor'. The concept of ancestors has been significant in various cultures and religions throughout history, with many traditions honoring and remembering their ancestors. Understanding our ancestry can provide insight into our heritage and identity.

See also: ancestors, ancestral.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,169 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.