Patrilineal

Definition

In the context of relationships, marriage, and family, patrilineal refers to a system where lineage, inheritance, and family name are traced through the father's line. It emphasizes the importance of male ancestors and typically involves children inheriting their father's surname and sometimes property or titles.

Related terms

Matrilineal: A system where lineage, inheritance, and family names are traced through the mother's line.

Patriarchy: A social system in which males hold primary power and predominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

Kinship: The network of social relationships that form an important part of the lives of all humans in all societies; kinship ties are relations established by blood or marriage