Definition

Noun: - A system of tracing family lineage through only one parent's side: Unilateral descent refers to the practice of determining kinship, inheritance, or clan membership exclusively through either the male line (patrilineal descent) or the female line (matrilineal descent).

Usage

This term is used in anthropology and sociology to describe specific cultural rules for tracing ancestry. - The clan followed a system of unilateral descent, with children belonging to their mother's lineage. - Inheritance laws based on unilateral descent often pass property from father to son.

Advanced Usage

• Contrast with Bilateral Descent: Unilateral descent is often discussed in contrast to bilateral descent, where lineage is traced through both parents.
  • Unlike societies with bilateral kinship, those with unilateral descent assign individuals to a single, distinct descent group.

Variants and Related Words

• Patrilineal Descent (n): A specific type of unilateral descent traced exclusively through the father's line.
  • The royal succession was governed by patrilineal descent.
• Matrilineal Descent (n): A specific type of unilateral descent traced exclusively through the mother's line.
  • In that culture, family names were passed down via matrilineal descent.

Synonyms

• Unilineal Descent: A more technical synonym used interchangeably in academic contexts.
• Lineal Descent: A broader term that can sometimes encompass the unilateral concept.

Noun

1. line of descent traced through one side of the family