1847, in reference to ancient Rome, "tribe, clan, house (of families having a name and certain religious rites in common and a presumed common origin)," from Latin gens (genitive gentis) "race, clan, nation" (see genus).
权威例句
1. Such were the rights and privileges of a typical Indian gens.
典型的印第安人氏族的职能就是这样.
2. Prohibition of marriage within the gens except in the case of heiresses.
禁止氏族内部通婚,但和女继承人结婚例外.
3. Obligation of mutual protection and help among members of the gens.