Ancestor — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms
Meaning & Definition of Ancestor
Ancestor (noun)
- one from whom a person is descended and who is usually more remote in the line of descent than a grandparent
- forefather
- forerunner, prototype
Ancestor (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms
-
a person who is several generations earlier in an individual's line of descent
"Bridie's Irish ancestors immigrated to the United States in the 19th century during the Great Potato Famine"
-
something belonging to an earlier time from which something else was later developed
"pinball machines—the ancestors of today's video games—go back to the 19th century"
Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Ancestor
The most common words with a similar meaning to Ancestor:
Antonyms & Opposite Words for Ancestor
Words with the opposite meaning of Ancestor:
Near Antonyms of Ancestor
Origin & Etymology of Ancestor
Middle English ancestre, from Anglo-French, from Latin antecessor predecessor, from antecedere to go before, from ante- + cedere to go
First known use: 14th century
Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Ancestor
- Topics: Family & People
Words & Phrases Containing Ancestor
Frequently Asked Questions about Ancestor
What does "Ancestor" mean?
"Ancestor" means one from whom a person is descended and who is usually more remote in the line of descent than a grandparent. As a noun, it is defined as: one from whom a person is descended and who is usually more remote in the line of descent than a grandparent. It has 2 distinct senses.
What is another word for "Ancestor"?
Other words for "Ancestor" include father, forebear, forebearer, forefather, grandfather, primogenitor, progenitor and antecedent. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Ancestor" you intend.
What are different ways to say "Ancestor"?
There are 31 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Ancestor". Common alternatives include father, forebear, forebearer, forefather, grandfather, primogenitor, progenitor, antecedent, archetype and daddy.
What is the opposite of "Ancestor"?
Antonyms of "Ancestor" include descendant. Near antonyms include children, family, issue and lineage.
How do you use "Ancestor" in a sentence?
Examples of "Ancestor" in a sentence: "Bridie's Irish ancestors immigrated to the United States in the 19th century during the Great Potato Famine"; "pinball machines—the ancestors of today's video games—go back to the 19th century".
Is "Ancestor" a noun, verb, or adjective?
"Ancestor" is a noun.
How do you pronounce "Ancestor"?
"Ancestor" is pronounced /ˈan-ˌse-stər/ and divided into syllables as an·ces·tor.
What is the origin of the word "Ancestor"?
"Ancestor" comes from Middle English ancestre, from Anglo-French, from Latin antecessor predecessor, from antecedere to go before, from ante- + cedere to go. First known use: 14th century.