What it is: A branch refers to a set of Plungises that we have a connected lineage of. Even though all Plungises share the same surname, that doesn't automatically mean we know how or even if they are related!

How we use it: A branch is assigned a color so far unused on the family tree. We then can try and discover how a branch may be linked to another (see 'branch merger') to create a more full family tree! (see 'family tree')

What it is: A branch merger refers to the event of when two previously unassociated branches become one branch as of the result of a shared member, or link. (see 'link')

How we use it: Branch mergers are significant events because of the large development it means for the overall family tree. (see 'family tree') When two branches merge the color highest in order, (generally rainbow order with Red having the most precedence and purple for example having lesser)  is the color chosen for the newly combined branch.

Example: "We finally had our first branch merger, between the White & Orange branches!"

Note: When a significant enough branch is merged with another, the color that is not used for the new mega branch (see 'mega branch') may be retired because of its synonymy with particular members and many references as such in many existing research docs. (see "List of Retired Branches")

What it is: The family tree refers to all Plungis branches connected or not. Our goal is to make the family tree one cohesive and connected lineage.

How we use it:  The family tree is the main result of the research we do, it is the primary form of the Plungis lineage, laid out in an easy to digest visual manner.

What it is: A mega branch is simply the term for a very large branch, often the result of a merger(s).

How we use it:  We use it when providing context for the size of a branch or outcome of a merger.

Example: "The modern Orange branch is a mega branch!"

What it is: A link is simply how two entities are related, whether that be individuals or branches. A link is most often a person.

How we use it:  Links are very important in combining parts of the family tree into one large one. They are the 

Example: 1. "George P. Plungis Sr. is the link between the Orange & retired White branch!"
      2. "Jonas Plungis is most likely the link between Lithuanian and American Plungises."

Note: A missing link refers to an either confirmed or unconfirmed link that we have not officially identified that, if existing, would be the relation of two entities. Essentially it is an unidentified link.