# parentage

/ˈpɛɹəntədʒ/ (US) · /pˈeəɹəntɪdʒ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parentage
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the fact of being a parent or the relationship between a child and their parents. It can also mean the origin or source of something.

For teachers: the state or condition of being a parent; the relationship between a child and their biological or adoptive parents. Also refers to the origin or source of something, such as a tradition or a piece of art.

## Examples

- The child's parentage was a mystery for many years.
- The museum's collection includes several paintings whose parentage remains a subject of intense debate among art historians.
- While the legal parentage of the heir was established through a formal adoption, the emotional bond with the biological family remained a significant source of tension throughout his life.

---

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.