Synonyms of in-lawnext
: a relative by marriage

Examples of in-law in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But by then, her in-laws were already like a second family to my mother. Ana Serrano, Glamour, 14 Dec. 2025 The graduation day felt joyful, with her parents, her ex-in-laws, Elias and Lorna all present. Ashley Vega, PEOPLE, 11 Dec. 2025 Everyone’s least favorite in-law-in-chief heads one of the firms helping Ellison finance his bid. Eric Vilas-Boas, Vulture, 8 Dec. 2025 But my in-laws have requested lists from my children. Judith Martin, Mercury News, 6 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for in-law

Word History

Etymology

mother-in-law, etc.

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in-law was in 1892

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In-law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in-law. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

in-law

noun
ˈin-ˌlȯ
: a relative by marriage

More from Merriam-Webster on in-law

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!