Family tree Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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family tree
[หfรฆm.ษl.i triห ]
Definitions
genealogy
A family tree is a diagram showing the relationships between people in a family, especially over several generations.
Synonyms
genealogy chart, pedigree chart.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| family tree |
Used in everyday conversations to depict the lineage or ancestry of a family in a simple and understandable format.
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| genealogy chart |
Typically used in formal or research contexts to describe a visual representation of someone's family lineage, focusing more on the structure and connections between generations.
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| pedigree chart |
Often used in formal or scientific domains, particularly in biology and veterinary contexts. It can also be used to show the breeding history of animals and sometimes carries a connotation related to purity of lineage.
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Examples of usage
- She spent hours researching her family tree.
- The family tree traced back to the 18th century.
ancestry
A family tree is a record or diagram of the ancestry or descendants of a person, a family, or a clan.
Synonyms
ancestry chart, lineage chart.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| family tree |
Use this term when describing a visual representation of family relationships. It's commonly used in casual or everyday conversation.
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| ancestry chart |
This term is appropriate in more formal or academic settings. It's often used in genealogical research to detail familial lineage.
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| lineage chart |
Used in formal contexts, especially when emphasizing the direct descent from an ancestor. It might also be seen in historical or cultural discussions.
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Examples of usage
- The family tree revealed surprising connections.
- He proudly displayed his family tree.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, tracing one's ancestry is important for understanding identity and heritage, influencing traditions and values.
- Some cultures, like many Indigenous tribes, view family trees as sacred, incorporating spiritual connections between ancestors and descendants.
Genealogy
- Genealogy is the study of families and ancestry, often using family trees to visually represent complicated lineages.
- With the rise of technology, online databases have made it easier to build digital family trees and connect with distant relatives.
Psychology
- Family trees can help in understanding family dynamics and roles, aiding in personal development and psychological exploration.
- Research has shown that knowing family history can strengthen individual identity and foster a sense of belonging.
Literature
- Family trees are often featured in novels to illustrate complex relationships, like in 'Harry Potter' where the Weasley tree shows the broad family connections.
- In plays and dramas, family trees can lay the groundwork for understanding character motivations and conflicts.
Origin of 'family tree'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'family tree' started to be used in the 19th century, combining the idea of family lineage with visual tree structures.
- The concept reflects the roots (ancestors) and branches (descendants) of a family, highlighting how families grow over time.
The concept of a family tree, also known as a genealogy chart, dates back centuries. People have long been interested in tracing their roots and understanding their family history. The practice of creating family trees has evolved over time, from hand-drawn diagrams to digital formats. Today, many resources are available to help individuals research and document their family trees, offering insights into their heritage and connections to past generations.