pedigree
PED-ih-gree
/ˈped.ɪ.ɡriː/
The record of descent of an animal, showing it to be purebred; the recorded ancestry of a person or family.
Often implies a high status, 'purity' of line, or a documented history of excellence.
The story behind the word. One of the most visual etymologies: in old family trees, a three-lined mark used to show descent looked like a crane's footprint. In Middle French, this was 'pié de grue', which English speakers mangled into 'pedigree'.
Word relationships
- bloodline: Bloodline is more biological; pedigree often refers to the written record of that bloodline.
Commonly confused with
- ancestry: Ancestry is the fact of your origins; pedigree is the documented proof of your distinguished origins.
Collocations
- impeccable pedigree
- long pedigree
- pedigree dog
Example sentences
- "The horse had an impeccable pedigree, with several Triple Crown winners in its bloodline." Animal breeding
- "The new CEO has an impressive academic pedigree, having studied at top universities." Professional reputation
Memory hook
Think of a 'pedigree' dog having a 'degree' in being a 'pet'. The crane's foot mark.
When not to use
Can sound elitist or dehumanizing if applied to people in a casual context.
Fun facts
- The term was first used in English in the 15th century to describe the genealogical tables of English nobility.
Explore more words
lineage, dynasty, hereditary, prestige, ancestor, consanguinity
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