Meaning & Definition of word "Descendent"

to

arrow

    Descendent

    /dɪˈsɛndənt/

    noun:

    • 1. A person or animal that is descended from a particular ancestor; an offspring.
      • Example: She is a descendent of a long line of artists.
    • 2. A plant or animal that has evolved from an earlier form.
      • Example: The modern horse is a descendent of prehistoric species.
    • 3. A beneficiary or heir in a family line.
      • Example: As the sole descendent of the estate, he inherited the family home.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'descendens', present participle of 'descendere', meaning 'to descend'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    bloodline descendent:

    A person in the direct line of descent from an ancestor.

    lineal descendent:

    Pertaining to direct ancestors and their direct descendants.

    Related Words

    ancestor:

    A person from whom one is descended.

    heritage:

    Property that is or may be inherited; an inheritance.

    Slang Meanings of descendent