progenitor

A direct ancestor. synonym: ancestor.

An originator of a line of descent; a precursor.

An originator; a founder.

An ancestor in the direct line; a forefather; a parent.

An ancestor in the direct line; a forefather.

A forefather, any of a person’s direct ancestors

An individual from whom one or more people (dynasty, tribe, nation…) are descended.

An ancestral form of a species

A predecessor of something, especially if also a precursor or model.

Someone who originates something.