lineal

lin·e·al

adj \ˈli-nē-əl\

Definition of LINEAL

1

: linear

2

: composed of or arranged in lines

3

a : consisting of or being in a direct male or female line of ancestry — compare collateral 2 b : relating to or derived from ancestors : hereditary c : descended in a direct line

4

a : belonging to one lineage <lineal relatives> b : of, relating to, or dealing with a lineage

— lin·e·al·i·ty \ˌli-nē-ˈa-lə-tē\ noun

— lin·e·al·ly \ˈli-nē-ə-lē\ adverb

Examples of LINEAL

1. He claims that he is a lineal descendent of a famous military hero.

First Known Use of LINEAL

14th century

Other Genetics Terms

chimera, hermaphrodite, plasticity