1.
ancestor, forebear, forefather
A person from whom one is descended, typically more remote than a grandparent. Often used to refer to deceased family members of past generations.
This land has been passed down through generations of ancestors.
先祖代々 = for generations, from generation to generation
CULTURAL NOTE: Honoring ancestors (先祖供養) is an important part of Japanese culture. Key occasions include:
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 先祖代々 (for generations)
- 先祖の墓 (ancestors' grave)
- 先祖供養 (memorial services for ancestors)
- 先祖を祀る (to enshrine/honor ancestors)
NEAR-SYNONYM: 祖先 is more formal/literary and often used for more distant ancestors or in scientific contexts (human evolution).