I have to ask - what is the meaning of genealogy?

Question:

I have to ask - what is the meaning of genealogy?

No dictionaries allowed. With the variety of questions asked under this heading I am curious to see what answers I get. And yes, I know the meaning.

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: The study of families and family relationships especially tracing family roots back through generations. I am a Scottish genealogist and have a lot of fun helping people get started tracing their roots. Genealogy can cover more than just families. I once did a presentation of the Genealogy of a Nation (Scotland) and it was well received.