pedigree

noun

ped·​i·​gree ˈpe-də-ˌgrē How to pronounce pedigree (audio)
1
: a register recording a line of ancestors
The pedigree traces the family back to the 18th century.
2
a
: an ancestral line : lineage
That horse has an impressive pedigree.
b
: the origin and the history of something
Democracy's pedigree stretches back to ancient Greece.
broadly : background, history
3
a
: a distinguished ancestry
actions spoke louder than pedigrees in the trenchesDixon Wecter
b
: the recorded purity of breed of an individual or strain
vouch for a horse's pedigree
pedigreed adjective
or pedigree

Examples of pedigree in a Sentence

That horse has an impressive pedigree. What is the dog's pedigree? The puppy came with papers proving its pedigree. Democracy is an idea with a pedigree stretching back to ancient Greece. The company has an excellent pedigree with over a century in the business.
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.
The venture firm Sequoia Capital ranks Palantir experience as the top pedigree for startup founders, for instance. Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 11 July 2025 Despite his activity and pedigree as a member of Kill Cliff FC, the UFC moved on from Loosa. Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025 Whether you’re drawn to its architectural pedigree, cinematic cameo, or simply the rare mix of privacy and modern design, Pheasants is a standout. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 8 July 2025 The potential return of a veteran with his experience and pedigree could be a major asset for WWE, whether in an on-screen role or as a backstage producer. Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for pedigree

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pedegru, from Anglo-French pé de grue, literally, crane's foot; from the shape made by the lines of a genealogical chart

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pedigree.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pedigree. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

pedigree

noun
ped·​i·​gree ˈped-ə-ˌgrē How to pronounce pedigree (audio)
1
: a table or list showing the line of ancestors of a person or animal
2
: an ancestral line : lineage
3
: purity of breed recorded by a pedigree
pedigreed adjective

Medical Definition

pedigree

noun
ped·​i·​gree ˈped-ə-ˌgrē How to pronounce pedigree (audio)
: a record of the ancestry of an individual
the pedigree of a diabetic patient

More from Merriam-Webster on pedigree

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!