What does the term 'cognati' specifically refer to in Roman context?

In the Roman context, the term 'cognati' specifically refers to blood relatives through female lines. This term is derived from the Latin word "cognatus," which denotes kinship and familial ties that are established through women, as opposed to 'agnati,' which pertains to male relatives and connections. The importance of cognati in Roman society highlights the significance of women in maintaining family connections and lineage, as women were often the bearers of family names and property through marriage alliances.

This distinction between cognati and other types of relationships reflects the complexities of Roman familial structures and how lineage could be traced through female ancestry, which was particularly relevant in matters such as inheritance and social status. Understanding 'cognati' helps to delineate the broader kinship practices in ancient Rome, where both maternal and paternal lines played vital roles in social organization.