Grandparent

Definition

Grandparent refers to the parent of one’s father or mother, representing a second-degree ancestor in a family lineage. Grandparents often play significant roles in families, including caregiving, cultural transmission, and emotional support.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɡrændˌpɛrənt/ or /ˈɡrændˌperənt/
• Respelling: GRAND-pehr-uhnt or GRAND-pair-uhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɡrɑːndˌpɛərənt/ or /ˈɡrændˌpɛərənt/
• Respelling: GRAHND-pehr-uhnt or GRAND-pehr-uhnt

Etymology

The word "grandparent" is derived from the prefix "grand-" indicating a generation removed, combined with "parent," originating from Latin "parens," meaning "father or mother." The term entered English in the late 15th century.

Derivatives

• Grandchild (noun)
• Grandparental (adjective)
• Great-grandparent (noun)
• Grandfather (noun)
• Grandmother (noun)

Synonyms

• Ancestor
• Forebear
• Granddad/Grandmom (informal)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "grandparent" is widely used in familial and genealogical contexts. For example, "She visited her grandparents during the holidays," or "A grandparent often serves as a source of wisdom and support."

Related Terms

• Parent: One's immediate progenitor.
• Descendant: An individual derived from a particular ancestor.
• Genealogy: The study of family lineage.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The parent of one's parent: Refers to a second-degree ancestor in a family tree.
  • Example: "Her grandparent taught her how to bake traditional recipes."
• A person fulfilling a caregiving role as a grandparent: Describes a figure involved in nurturing and supporting younger generations.
  • Example: "The grandparent helped raise the children while the parents worked."