gens

[ jenz ]

noun

, plural gen·tes [jen, -teez].

1. a group of families in ancient Rome claiming descent from a common ancestor and united by a common name and common ancestral religious rites.
2. Anthropology. a group tracing common descent in the male line; clan.

gens

/ dʒɛnz /

noun

1. (in ancient Rome) any of a group of aristocratic families, having a common name and claiming descent from a common ancestor in the male line
2. anthropol a group based on descent in the male line

Other Words From

• subgens noun plural subgentes

Word History and Origins

Origin of gens¹

First recorded in 1840–50, gens is from the Latin word gēns race, people. See genus, gender ¹, gender ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of gens¹

C19: from Latin: race; compare genus , gender

Example Sentences

Certes le capitaine Merveilles et ses gens monstrerent leur pit non vulgaire.

From Project Gutenberg

Ceci et plusieurs autres choses discouroit ledit Sieur de Biancourt encourageant ses gens.

From Project Gutenberg

Cela nous plaisoit fort, car aussy nos gens avoyent besoin 36 de temps pour s'armer et pavier.

From Project Gutenberg

D'effect, en deux endroits, aucuns de nos gens s'escrierent miserablement que nous estions trestous perdus.

From Project Gutenberg

Toute la nuit ce ne fust que haranguer, chanter, danser; car telle est la vie de toutes ces gens lorsqu'ils sont en troupe.

From Project Gutenberg