ancestry
n. US //ˈænsɛstɹi// UK //ˈænsɛstɹi// an·ces·try
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1 noble birth (n.) C1 Advanced Formal Literarycoming from a family that has a high social rank or a famous history.
descent from a noble, high-ranking, or distinguished family. This sense emphasizes the status of the lineage rather than just the biological connection.
ExampleIn the old days, a person's ancestry was more important than their skills.
ExampleThe protagonist was a man of ancient ancestry, though his family had long since lost the wealth that once accompanied their title.
From Middle English auncestrie, from Old French ancesserie. See ancestor.