Ambilineality is a system of determining descent groups in which one belongs to one's father's or mother's lineage. Unlike Unilineal descent, Ambilineality allows the individual the option of choosing their own lineage. The Hawaiian kinship system is an example of ambilineality.

A number of societies practice Ambilineal descent, most of them being in Southeast Asia or the Pacific. The Samoan and Northwestern Native American societies are practitioners of Ambilineality. Ambilineal descent is also often found among Jewish peoples living in the United States.

See also

• Unilineality
• Family
• Cultural anthropology