agnate

[ ag-neyt ]

noun

1. a relative whose connection is traceable exclusively through males.
2. any male relation on the father's side.

adjective

1. related or akin through males or on the father's side.
2. allied or akin.

agnate

/ ˈæɡneɪt; æɡˈnætɪk /

adjective

1. related by descent from a common male ancestor
2. related in any way; cognate

noun

1. a male or female descendant by male links from a common male ancestor

Derived Forms

• agnatic, adjective
• agˈnation, noun

Other Words From

• ag·nat·ic [ag-, nat, -ik], ag·nati·cal adjective
• ag·nati·cal·ly adverb
• ag·na·tion [ag-, ney, -sh, uh, n], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of agnate¹

First recorded in 1450–1500; from Latin agnātus “paternal kinsman,” variant of ad(g)nātus “born to” (past participle of adgnāscī ), equivalent to ad- ad- + -gnā “be born” + -tus past participle suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of agnate¹

C16: from Latin agnātus born in addition, added by birth, from agnāsci, from ad- in addition + gnāsci to be born

Example Sentences

If a man die intestate, having no natural heirs, his property shall pass to the nearest agnate.

From Project Gutenberg

Failing an agnate, a member of the gens of the dead man is to inherit.

From Project Gutenberg

(a) If a free person is abducted, the fine shall be divided equally between his agnate and cognate heirs and the treasury.

From Project Gutenberg

The grand duchy, being hereditary only in the male line, passed to the nearest agnate, the duke of Nassau.

From Project Gutenberg

A man may not marry the widow of his brother, or of an agnate.

From Project Gutenberg