ancestral

adjective

an·​ces·​tral an-ˈse-strəl How to pronounce ancestral (audio)
: of, relating to, or inherited from an ancestor
ancestral estates
ancestrally adverb

Examples of ancestral in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Indigenous Tribes’ ancestral homelands and hunting grounds could be under threat of mining, clear cutting, or development without consultation because of this decision. Ryan Gellert, Time, 9 Sep. 2025 Gargari incorporates music from his clients’ ancestral backgrounds into their massage. Sarah Larson, New Yorker, 8 Sep. 2025 This holiday, which celebrates life, remembrance, and ancestral connection, is always accompanied by a festival-like atmospher, music and special treats such as sugary skulls. Sherrie Nachman, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025 For the first time, the ceremonial movement Solstice Unites will open the Global Citizen Festival and present a historic Global Powwow to honor the land and the ancestral stewards of the grounds. Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 4 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ancestral

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ancestral was in the 15th century

Cite this Entry

“Ancestral.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ancestral. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

ancestral

adjective
an·​ces·​tral an-ˈses-trəl How to pronounce ancestral (audio)
: of, relating to, or developed from an ancestor
ancestral home
ancestrally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on ancestral

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