ASCENDANT

ascendant ([schwa]-sen-d[schwa]nt), n. One who precedes in lineage, such as a parent or grandparent. — Also termed ancestor. Cf. DESCENDANT. — ascendant, adj. collateral ascendant. Loosely, an aunt, uncle, or other relative who is not strictly an ancestor. — Also termed collateral ancestor. lineal ascendant. A blood relative in the direct line of ascent; ancestor. […]