consanguinity

[ kon-sang-gwin-i-tee ]

noun

1. relationship by descent from a common ancestor; kinship ( affinity ).
2. close relationship or connection.

consanguinity

/ ˌkɒnsæŋˈɡwɪnɪtɪ /

noun

1. relationship by blood; kinship
2. close affinity or connection
3. geology (of igneous rocks) similarity of origin, as shown by common mineral and chemical compositions and often texture

Derived Forms

• ˌconsanˈguineous, adjective
• ˌconsanˈguineously, adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of consanguinity¹

1350–1400; Middle English consanguinite (< Anglo-French ) < Latin consanguinitās. See consanguineous, -ity

Word History and Origins

Origin of consanguinity¹

C14: see con- , sanguine

Example Sentences

The findings, now published in Genetics in Medicine OPEN, revealed a correlation between occurrences of complex genetic disorders in those families with increased levels of consanguinity when compared to unaffected populations.

From Science Daily

While the Himba population has historically exhibited a preference for consanguinity, Henn and Swinford were surprised to find that none of the individuals in their sample population had parents who were actually first cousins.

From Science Daily

"In general terms, our studies have shown that the health risks attributed to consanguinity have been exaggerated."

From Salon

It’s a wise choice, in keeping with the overall tone of a story about adolescents held together by a cultivated consanguinity.

From New York Times

Further complicating the picture, there are two kinds of Does in Tiptoe Floorboard: “the Does by affinity and the Does by consanguinity.”

From Los Angeles Times