Definition

A record or list showing the ancestors of a person or animal, often used to indicate purebred status.

Example

The dog's pedigree shows that it comes from a long line of champions.

Conversation

Did you know that my dog has an impressive pedigree?

Really? That's cool! What breed is he?

He's a purebred Labrador with a long line of champions in his pedigree.

That's awesome! I bet he has a great temperament too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pedigree → It is derived from the Old French term *pied de grue*, which means 'crane's foot'. The term originally referred to the way in which the lines of descent were represented, resembling the shape of a crane's foot. Thus, pedigree refers to a record of ancestry or lineage.

Memory Tip

Imagine a crane's foot representing the branches of a family tree — that's how pedigree connects to the idea of lineage and ancestry.

Visually Confused Words