Educational genealogy definitions and explanations designed to help beginners and experienced researchers better understand common family history terminology, records, DNA concepts, and research methods.
Genealogy Definition What Is a Census Return? Census returns are some of the most valuable genealogy records because they capture entire households at a specific moment in time and help researchers trace families across generations. Short Definition A census return is an official government record created during a census that lists people living in a … Read more
Genealogy Definition What Is a Will? Wills are some of the most personal genealogy records because they often reveal family relationships, property, priorities, and the final wishes of past generations. Short Definition A will is a legal document that explains what someone wanted to happen to their money, property, possessions, and estate after they died. … Read more
Genealogy Definition What Is Probate? Probate records can reveal family relationships, property, inheritance, and personal details that often don’t survive anywhere else in the historical record. Short Definition Probate is the legal process of dealing with someone’s estate after they die. In genealogy, probate records can help uncover family relationships, property, occupations, locations, and details … Read more
Genealogy Definition What Is Civil Registration? Civil registration records are some of the most important sources in genealogy because they officially document births, marriages, and deaths through government systems. Short Definition Civil registration is the government recording of births, marriages, and deaths. In genealogy, civil registration records are some of the most important sources used … Read more
Genealogy Definition What Is a Parish Register? Parish registers are some of the most important records in genealogy because they documented baptisms, marriages, and burials long before governments began civil registration systems. Short Definition A parish register is a church record used to document important life events such as baptisms, marriages, and burials. For many … Read more
Genealogy Definition What Does Paternal Mean? In genealogy, paternal refers to the side of your family connected through your father and helps researchers organize family lines, surnames, and DNA connections. Short Definition In genealogy, “paternal” refers to the side of your family connected through your father. Your paternal line includes your dad, his parents, grandparents, … Read more
Genealogy Definition What Does Maternal Mean? In genealogy, maternal refers to the side of your family connected through your mother and helps researchers organize family branches, DNA matches, and ancestral stories. Short Definition In genealogy, “maternal” refers to the side of your family connected through your mother. Your maternal line includes your mum, her parents, … Read more