noun
lineage of the eldest son; main family line
Refers to the direct line of descent through the eldest son in a traditional family system, often contrasted with branch families (分家). Used in historical, legal, and cultural contexts.
彼は嫡流の家柄を誇りに思っている。
He is proud of his lineage as the main family line.
江戸時代には、嫡流が家督を継ぐのが一般的だった。
In the Edo period, it was common for the main line to succeed to the family headship.