Branch

This is a metaphorical expression, which designates, in the genealogy of a numerous family, @ portion of that family, which has sp from the same root or stock; these latter expressions, like the first are also metaphorical. The whole of a is often called the pouenoey genealogical tree, and sometimes it ig made to take the form of a trce, 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 grand children, &c. If, for example, it be desired to form the 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 twigs as John and James have children; these will produce others till the whole family shall be represented on the tree; thus the origin, the application and use of the word branch in genealogy will be at once perceived.