lineal
|li-ni-al|
/ˈlɪniəl/
direct descent
Etymology
'lineal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'linealis', where 'linea' meant 'line'.
'lineal' changed from Latin 'linealis' into Old French/Medieval Latin forms and then into Middle English (recorded forms such as 'linial' or 'lineal'), eventually becoming the modern English word 'lineal'.
Initially it meant 'pertaining to a line' (from the literal 'line'); over time it acquired the specific sense 'in a direct line of descent' as well as the related sense 'linear' in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who is a direct descendant (used especially of a person in a direct line of ancestry).
Many lineals attended the family reunion.
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Adjective 1
being in a direct line of descent; related by blood in a straight genealogical line (e.g., father to son).
She is a lineal descendant of the royal family.
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Adjective 2
pertaining to or arranged in a line; linear.
The towns lie in a lineal pattern along the river.
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Adverb 1
in a lineal manner; by direct descent or in a linear way (derived form: 'lineally').
He inherited the title lineally from his grandfather.
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Last updated: 2025/09/24 12:32