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ancestro

ahn-SESS-troh/anˈsestɾo/

“ancestro” means “ancestor” in Spanish (a person from whom one is descended).

ancestor

Also: forefather
NounmB1
General
A kind elderly man in traditional clothing standing behind a small child, representing family lineage.

📝 In Action

Mis ancestros vinieron de Italia hace cien años.

A2

My ancestors came from Italy a hundred years ago.

Es fascinante descubrir la vida de un ancestro lejano.

B1

It is fascinating to discover the life of a distant ancestor.

Honramos a nuestros ancestros durante las fiestas tradicionales.

B2

We honor our ancestors during traditional holidays.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • ancestro común – common ancestor
  • linaje de ancestros – lineage of ancestors
  • honrar a los ancestros – to honor the ancestors

Idioms & Expressions

  • la voz de los ancestros – the wisdom or influence of past generations

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "ancestro" in Spanish:

ancestor→forefather→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: ancestro

Question 1 of 3

If you are talking about your great-great-grandfather, he is your...

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
ancestral(ancestral) — Adjective
ancestralmente(ancestrally) — Adverb
ancestría(ancestry) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin word 'antecessor,' which literally means 'someone who goes before.' It shares the same roots as the English word 'ancestor.'

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

French: ancêtreItalian: antenato

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 'ancestro' for a living relative?

No, 'ancestro' specifically refers to relatives from past generations who are usually deceased.

Is there a female version of this word?

While 'ancestra' is technically possible, it is very rare. Usually, 'ancestro' is used for both genders, or people switch to 'antepasada' to refer to a specific female ancestor.

Is 'ancestro' a formal word?

It is slightly more formal than 'antepasado,' but it is perfectly normal to use in school, documentaries, or when discussing history.