PATRILINEAR Meaning and
Definition
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Patrilinear is an adjective that describes a social or cultural system in which descent, inheritance, or family identity is traced through the male line. It is derived from the Latin word "pater" meaning "father" and the word "linea" meaning "line."
In a patrilinear society, the family name, wealth, and property are typically passed down from fathers to their sons. This means that membership in a particular family or clan is determined by one's relationship to the male ancestors. The lineage is therefore believed to be preserved through the male members of the family, meaning that the male offspring carry the family name and continue the family legacy.
This social structure often exhibits a preference for male inheritance and leadership, with men typically occupying dominant roles in political, economic, and social affairs. It can also influence other aspects of life such as marriage practices, where unions are often organized to maintain or strengthen existing alliances between patrilinear families.
Patrilinearity is found in various cultures and historical periods, including many traditional societies and early civilizations. It stands in contrast to matrilineal systems, where descent and family identity are traced through the female line. While patrilinear structures are more common globally, it is important to note that alternative systems exist and have shaped human societies in diverse and complex ways throughout history.
Common Misspellings for PATRILINEAR
- 0atrilinear
- pztrilinear
- pstrilinear
- pwtrilinear
- pqtrilinear
- parrilinear
- pafrilinear
- pagrilinear
- payrilinear
- pa6rilinear
- pa5rilinear
- pateilinear
- patdilinear
- patfilinear
- pattilinear
- pat5ilinear
- pat4ilinear
- patrulinear
- patrjlinear
Etymology of PATRILINEAR
The word "patrilineal" is derived from combining two elements: "patri" and "lineal".
The prefix "patri" is derived from the Latin word "pater", meaning "father". This prefix is commonly used in words referring to fathers, such as "paternity" (the state of being a father) and "paternal" (relating to one's father).
The word "lineal" comes from the Latin "linealis", which is derived from "linea", meaning "line". In this context, "lineal" refers to familial relationships or descent in a direct line, typically referring to the male side of the family.
Therefore, "patrilineal" refers to a system or practice in which descent and inheritance are traced through the male line.
Similar spelling words for PATRILINEAR
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