Branch
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BRANCH. This is a metaphorical expression, which designates, in the
genealogy of a numerous family, a portion of that family which has sprang
from the same root or stock; these latter expressions, like the first, are
also metaphorical.
2. The whole of a genealogy is often called the genealogical tree; and
sometimes it is made to take the form of a tree, which is in the first place
divided into as many branches as there are children, afterwards into as many
branches as there are grand-children, then of great grandchildren, &c. If,
for example, it be desired to have a genealogical tree of Peter's family,
Peter will be made the trunk of the tree; if he has had two children, John
and James, their names will be written on the first two branches; which will
themselves shoot out as many smaller branches as John and James have
children; from these other's proceed, till the whole family is represented
on the tree; thus the origin, the application, and the use of the word
branch in genealogy will be at once perceived.