Genealogical dictionaries often contain outdated terms and phrases that reflect historical language and customs. Accurately interpreting these is crucial for understanding ancestral records. This guide provides tips and tools to help decode such terms.
Why Old Terms Matter in Genealogy
Historical terms often reveal significant information about your ancestors’ lives, such as their social roles, relationships, or occupations. Misinterpreting them could lead to inaccurate family histories.
For example, “yeoman” refers to a land-owning farmer, while “spinster” historically described an unmarried woman, regardless of age.
Steps to Interpret Old Terms and Phrases
1. Understand the Historical Context
Research the era of the document to grasp the language and societal norms of that time.
- Example: “Consort” often denoted a spouse, especially a wife, in tombstone inscriptions.
2. Use Specialized Genealogy Glossaries
Genealogical resources often include glossaries explaining historical terms. For instance:
- “Freeman”: Could indicate membership in a guild or signify someone not enslaved.
- “Chandler”: A maker or seller of candles.
3. Recognize Regional Variations
Local dialects and languages influence genealogical terms.
- Example: In Scotland, “kirk” means church, while Irish records often use prefixes like “Mac” (son of) or “O’” (descendant of).
4. Cross-Reference Historical Records
Verify unfamiliar terms by comparing them with other sources like census records, wills, or church registries.
Common Categories of Old Terms
1. Relationships
Terms for familial connections often differ from modern usage.
- “In-law”: Historically used broadly for any familial tie by marriage.
- “Baseborn”: Refers to a child born out of wedlock.
2. Occupations
Many trades had unique titles that reveal ancestral livelihoods.
- “Cordwainer”: A shoemaker, distinct from a cobbler.
- “Collier”: A coal miner.
3. Legal Terms
Legal language describes contracts, inheritances, or property.
- “Fee tail”: An inheritance restricted to direct descendants.
- “Indenture”: A binding agreement, often for apprenticeships.
Tools for Interpretation
- Online Genealogical Databases
Websites like FamilySearch and Genealogy.com provide glossaries for free. - Historical Dictionaries
- Oxford English Dictionary: Explains word origins and historical meanings.
- Dictionary of Old Occupations: Focused on job-related terms.
- Local Libraries and Archives
Staff at these institutions can help decipher difficult terms.
Challenges in Interpretation
- Spelling Variations
Historical records often lack standardized spelling, e.g., “tailor” may appear as “tayler.” - Obsolete Words
Some words no longer exist in modern usage, requiring specialized knowledge to understand. - Ambiguity
Phrases like “by license” for marriages might differ in meaning based on location and era.
Conclusion
Interpreting old terms and phrases in genealogical dictionaries is essential for accurate family history research. By learning the historical context, using specialized tools, and cross-referencing records, you can uncover detailed insights into your ancestry.
