'Prodigy' vs 'Progeny' What's the Difference Descendants refers to individuals that are produced due to the act of reproduction. It connotes the perpetuation of genes and the handover of qualities from parent to offspring. The significance of progeny extends beyond biological offspring, encompassing foster children, as well as also ideas that get transferred from one generation to another. Descendants bring the heritage of their ancestors, creating them a bond among past and future.