Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cognation

Noun

/ˈkɒɡ.neɪ.ʃən/

Definition

The state of being related or connected, especially in a linguistic or genealogical sense.

Examples

English and German share a cognation that can be traced back to their common ancestor in the Germanic family of languages.
The cognation of certain family names can reveal intriguing historical connections.

Meaning

Cognation refers to the relationship between languages that stem from a common ancestor or the connection between individuals who share a common lineage.