lack descendants; divide by historical periods
Meanings
3 senses · 8 examplesverb
to have no descendants; to end a family line
Literally refers to a family line dying out. Often used in a broader, metaphorical sense.
This branch of the family line ended with him.
If the preference for sons over daughters doesn't change, some crafts will risk having no successors.
verb
(figurative) to be interrupted; to have no successor; to die out
Metaphorical extension of the first meaning, commonly used for skills, traditions, or cultural heritage.
This traditional craft must not die out in our generation.
The master is trying hard to find successors so his unique skill won't be lost.
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If the company's core technical team leaves, it could lead to a generational gap in technology.
verb
to periodize; to divide into historical periods
technicalA specialized term used in historiography, literary history, and archaeology.
This literary history book uses a new periodization method.
Archaeologists date the site based on the characteristics of the pottery.
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A dynastic history is a historical book that studies a specific historical period.