First cousin once removed

First cousin once removed is a term used to describe a specific type of family relationship that exists between two individuals across two generations within an extended family. This relationship is one step removed from the direct cousin relationship, hence the term "once removed."

Definition

In genealogy, a "first cousin once removed" can be either the child of one's first cousin or the first cousin of one's parent. The term "removed" indicates the difference in generational level between the individuals. The relationship does not involve a direct parent-child link, but rather spans across two generations through a common ancestor.

Maternal and Paternal Relationships

The relationship can occur on either the maternal side or the paternal side of the family. For example, if person A's first cousin is person B, then person B's child, person C, is person A's first cousin once removed. Conversely, if person A is the child of person D, and person D's first cousin is person E, then person E is person A's first cousin once removed.

Cultural Significance

The concept of "first cousin once removed" is recognized and has varying degrees of social and legal recognition and significance in different cultures. In some cultures, extended family relationships are very important, and precise terms like this are commonly used in everyday language.

Legal Aspects

In some jurisdictions, the relationships defined as "first cousin once removed" have legal implications, particularly in matters of inheritance or marriage legality. The laws can vary significantly between different regions and cultures.

Genetic Relationship

From a genetic perspective, first cousins once removed are typically expected to share about 6.25% of their genetic material. This is derived from the fact that first cousins share approximately 12.5% of their DNA, and the "once removed" generational difference halves this percentage.

See Also

• Family tree
• Second cousin
• Cousin chart

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