family tree

noun

Synonyms of family treenext
1
2
: a genealogical diagram

Examples of family tree in a Sentence

A framed family tree hung on the wall. his family tree includes writers, musical composers, and other notables in the arts
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.
Identifying seven new genera in a single study is considered highly unusual — fundamentally reshaping how scientists understand an entire branch of the insect family tree. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 6 Apr. 2026 Meryl Streep's family tree is a fashionable affair. Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Apr. 2026 When Omicron swept the globe in late 2021, genetic testing picked up five primary branches of its family tree. Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2026 The Oscar-winning actress and former Vogue editor-in-chief are related, according to an analysis of family trees and public records done by DNA testing company Ancestry. Melina Khan, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for family tree

Word History

First Known Use

1763, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of family tree was in 1763

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Family tree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/family%20tree. Accessed 11 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

family tree

noun
1
2
: a diagram showing family relationships

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