sibling

noun

sib·​ling ˈsi-bliŋ 

1

: sib sense 2

also : one of two or more individuals having one common parent

2

: one of two or more things related by a common tie or characteristic

the sedan's smaller sibling

Examples of sibling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This is not dissimilar to conversations that my own parents and grandparents had to have with me and my siblings in our younger years, showing us how to code switch in situations where not doing so could lead to dire consequences. —Jaha Nailah Avery june 9, Literary Hub, 9 June 2025

Caregiving has typically meant childcare, but the COVID-19 pandemic, an aging population and rising costs have expanded the definition to include siblings, parents, grandparents and even pets. —Medora Lee, USA Today, 8 June 2025

Kiss sweat-inducing comforters goodbye, and opt for their airy, summer-ready sibling: the quilt. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 2025

Enlist older children: Give age-appropriate tasks to older kids who can help with younger siblings and household responsibilities. —Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing sibling

• sibling rivalry
• sibling species

Kids Definition

sibling

noun

sib·​ling ˈsib-liŋ 

: one of two or more individuals having the same parents or sometimes only one parent in common

Medical Definition

sibling

noun

sib·​ling ˈsib-liŋ 

: sib

also : one of two or more individuals having one common parent