# bloodline

/ˈbɫədˌɫaɪn/ (US) · /blˈʌdlaɪn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bloodline
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a family of people who are related by marriage or by having the same ancestors. It can also describe a group of animals that have been bred together for many years.

For teachers: a line of descent from a common ancestor; a family or group of animals sharing a common genetic heritage. Often used in the context of selective breeding or historical genealogy.

## Examples

- The family has a long and proud bloodline.
- The breeder carefully maintained the bloodline of the champion racehorses to ensure their offspring inherited the same speed.
- Historians often trace the bloodline of European royalty to understand how power and land were distributed across centuries of political upheaval.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.