bilateral descent
"Bilateral descent" describes a kinship system where an individual's lineage is traced through both the maternal and paternal sides equally.
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Definition
C1Anthropology
(academic, technical)A system of tracing kinship and descent through both the mother's and father's lines equally.
Example
- In societies practicing bilateral descent, both maternal and paternal relatives are considered part of one's kin group.
C1Sociology
(academic, technical)A kinship system where family ties, social status, and inheritance are determined by relationships with both maternal and paternal relatives.
Example
- Bilateral descent influences how inheritance and family responsibilities are distributed in certain cultures.
B2Genealogy
(technical)The practice of tracing ancestry through both parents, recognizing all ancestors on both sides of the family.
Example
- Genealogists often use bilateral descent to create a comprehensive family tree.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "bilateral descent":