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 sense 2
b
: relating to or derived from ancestors : hereditary
c
: descended in a direct line
4
a
: belonging to one lineage
lineal relatives
b
: of, relating to, or dealing with a lineage
Examples of lineal in a Sentence
He claims that he is a lineal descendent of a famous military hero.
Recent Examples on the Web
And the Open Cup package could provide an on-ramp for CBS to get more acquainted with MLS fans and clubs, and vice versa, before MLS may be looking for a new lineal TV deal in 2026.
—
Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
In his second stint, Foreman went on to win the unified WBA, IBF, and lineal heavyweight championship titles.
—Ryan Morik, Fox News, 22 Mar. 2025
The winners of the tournaments will be separate from the Champions Series, which focuses on a more lineal champion concept.
—Brian Mazique, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
However, the tournament winners can challenge for lineal championships down the road.
—Brian Mazique, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
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Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
In his second stint, Foreman went on to win the unified WBA, IBF, and lineal heavyweight championship titles.
—Ryan Morik, Fox News, 22 Mar. 2025
The winners of the tournaments will be separate from the Champions Series, which focuses on a more lineal champion concept.
—Brian Mazique, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
However, the tournament winners can challenge for lineal championships down the road.
—Brian Mazique, Forbes, 16 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lineal
Cite this Entry
“Lineal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lineal. Accessed 19 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLegal Definition
lineal
adjective
lin·e·al
ˈli-nē-əl 
: consisting of or being in a direct male or female line of ancestry
a lineal descendant
compare collateral sense 2
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