Ambilineal

Definition

Ambilineal is a system of descent where individuals may choose to affiliate with either their mother's or father's lineage. This choice often depends on social, economic, or emotional reasons and can change over an individual’s lifetime.

Related terms

Matrilineal: A system of lineage in which descent is traced through the mother and maternal ancestors.

Patrilineal: A system where one's family lineage is traced through the father and paternal ancestors.

Kinship:

The complex system of social relationships that form the basis of family ties and lineage, including marriage, ancestry, and adoption