The Opposite(Antonym) of “descendant”
The antonyms of descendant are ancestor and predecessor. These words refer to people or things that come before or after another in a family, lineage, or sequence.
Explore all Antonyms of “descendant”
- predecessor
- ancestor
Definitions and Examples of ancestor, predecessor
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ancestor
A person from whom one is descended, especially if more remote than a grandparent.
Example
My great-great-grandfather was an ancestor who fought in the Civil War.
A person who held a job or position before the current holder.
Example
The new CEO has big shoes to fill, as his predecessor was highly respected.
Key Differences: ancestor vs predecessor
- 1Ancestor refers to a person from whom one is descended, while descendant refers to a person who is descended from a particular ancestor.
- 2Predecessor refers to a person who held a job or position before the current holder, while descendant refers to a person who comes after a particular ancestor.
Effective Usage of ancestor, predecessor
- 1Genealogy: Use ancestor and descendant to trace family history and relationships.
- 2Succession: Use predecessor and descendant to describe the order of people who hold a job or position.
- 3History: Use ancestor and descendant to describe the lineage of historical figures or civilizations.
Remember this!
The antonyms ancestor and predecessor have distinct meanings. Ancestor refers to a person from whom one is descended, while predecessor refers to a person who held a job or position before the current holder. Use these words to describe genealogy, succession, and history.
