# pedigree

/ˈpɛdəɡɹi/ (US) · /pˈɛdɪɡɹˌiː/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pedigree
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. animal ancestry

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the record of an animal's ancestors, showing that it is a pure breed.

For teachers: the recorded ancestry or genealogical table of a domesticated animal, particularly to demonstrate purebred status.

- The breeder provided a full pedigree for the puppy to prove its champion bloodline.
- The horse's pedigree was impeccable, tracing its lineage back to several legendary Triple Crown winners.

Usage: Often used as a countable noun when referring to the physical document.

### 2. distinguished history

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

a person's family history or the long, successful background of an idea or company.

For teachers: a person's ancestral history or the provenance and development of an institution or concept, usually implying high status.

- The university has a long pedigree of producing world-class scientists.
- Despite the firm's impressive pedigree in traditional finance, it struggled to adapt to the rapid shift toward digital currencies.

Usage: Frequently used metaphorically to describe institutions or professional reputations.

### 3. purebred

adjective · CEFR C1 · British English · Technical

describing an animal that comes from a family of the same breed.

For teachers: having a documented line of ancestors of the same breed; purebred.

- They only sell pedigree cats at this specific pet shop.
- The competition is strictly limited to pedigree dogs that meet the specific physical standards of the kennel club.

Usage: In American English, 'purebred' is more common as an adjective, while 'pedigree' is often used as a noun.

## Examples

- The puppy comes with a full pedigree showing its champion ancestors.
- The new CEO has an impressive academic pedigree, having studied at several of the world's top universities.
- The firm's long pedigree in international law gave the clients confidence that their complex cross-border dispute would be handled with the necessary expertise and historical perspective.

---

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.