understanding genealogy terms

by Deborah K. Millemaci
(return to genealogy)

Often in our genealogy research we come across words that may be unfamiliar to us. An indispensible resource to make our understanding of these terms easier are "genealogy glossaries". Simply put, these are a collection of words and terminology that describe legal, medical, and occupations, that are relevant in deciphering documents. I have found several websites that are great reference aids that will help you understand many word and phrases contained in documents even if you aren't researching Italian family ancestry.

• Cyndi's List - Dictionaries & Glossaries
  One of the most comprehensive lists I've come across! A MUST see!

• Genealogy Definitions, Dictionaries, and Terminology Directory
  This website is a compilation of sites that will give you information on adoptive, medical, and occupational terms.

• Charts Page
  Family, legal, and occupation definitions.

  This website is includes medical, Latin definitions, languages, and more.

• Ancestry.com - The Secret Code of Genealogy: Abbreviations and Acronyms

• Terms Used in Genealogical Research
  You will find an informational glossary on terms used in wills, land deeds and surveys, medical conditions and more.

• Terminology
  A-Z of genealogical terms

• Vital Records & Census Records for the U.S.
  Information on outdated medical, occupations, and relationship terms and what their "modern" equivalents are now.

©Deborah K. Millemaci - September 2003
No part of this article may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the author.