parentage

noun

par·​ent·​age ˈper-ən-tij 

1

a

: descent from parents or ancestors : lineage

a person of noble parentage

b

: derivation, origin

a tradition of uncertain parentage

2

: parenthood

Synonyms of parentage

• ancestry
• lineage
• origin
• pedigree
• breeding

Examples of parentage in a Sentence

they were pleased that their son's girlfriend was of good parentage

Recent Examples on the Web

But some legal experts say this has been a foundational American principle, part of a broader rejection of parentage or lineage determining an individual’s status or rights. —Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 22 Mar. 2026

But even without Benedict knowing the truth of Sophie’s parentage, much of Season 4 is dedicated to him learning the ins and outs of power dynamics. —Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 26 Feb. 2026

On the one hand, Lady Penwood has tormented Sophie since her father’s death, denying her parentage, forcing her into servitude, and working her to the bone. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 19 Feb. 2026

All occupation children, all of mixed-race parentage and a result of war. —Danielle Parker, CBS News, 15 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Anglo-French, from parent parent entry 1 + -age -age

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

parentage

noun

par·​ent·​age ˈpar-ənt-ij 

ˈper-

: descent from parents or ancestors : lineage