descent
noun
de·scent
| \ di-ˈsent
\
\
Definition of descent
b
: transmission or devolution of an estate (see estate entry 1 sense 4b) by inheritance usually in the descending line
c
: the fact or process of originating from an ancestral stock
the descent of modern humans and chimpanzees from a common ancestor
d
: the shaping or development in nature and character by transmission from a source : derivation
… could trace a faint but sure descent from Roman law.— R. W. Southern
2
: the act or process of descending from a higher to a lower level, rank, or state
begin our descent down the mountain
3
: a step downward in a scale of gradation
specifically
: one generation in an ancestral line or genealogical scale
His pedigree shows eleven descents.
4a
: an inclination downward : slope
a nearly perpendicular descent
b
: a way (such as a downgrade or stairway) that descends or leads downward
c
obsolete
: the lowest part
from the extremest upward of thy head to the descent and dust below thy foot— Shakespeare
b
: a sudden disconcerting appearance (as for a visit)
unprepared for the descent of her in-laws
6
: a downward step (as in station or value) : decline
the descent of the family into poverty