[lin.e.al] adj (14c) 1: linear
2: composed of or arranged in lines 3 a: consisting of or being in a direct male or female line of ancestry--compare collateral
2. b: relating to or derived from ancestors: hereditary c: descended in a direct line
4. a: belonging to one lineage "~ relatives" b: of, relating to, or dealing with a lineage -- lin.e.al.i.ty n -- lin.e.al.ly adv