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agnate

/ˌægˈneɪt/
IPA guide

Other forms: agnates

An agnate is a relative on your father's side of the family. Your father's parents are your agnate grandparents.

Agnate refers to relatives connected to you directly through your father, such as your father's parents or his siblings. The term comes from the Latin word agnatus, which means "born from the same father." Historically, agnate relationships were significant in determining inheritance and family roles. Today, understanding who your agnate relatives are can help you learn more about your family's history and how different branches of your family tree connect.

Definitions of agnate
  1. adjective
    related on the father's side
    synonyms: agnatic, paternal
    related
    connected by kinship, common origin, or marriage
  2. noun
    one related on the father's side
    see moresee less
    type of:
    relation, relative
    a person related by blood or marriage
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