Gens /(jĕnz)/

Gens

n.

pl. Gentes ((jĕn"tēz))

  1. A clan or family connection, embracing several families of the same stock, who had a common name and certain common religious rites; a subdivision of the Roman curia or tribe. (Rom. Hist.)
  2. A minor subdivision of a tribe, among American aborigines. It includes those who have a common descent, and bear the same totem. (Ethnol.)