in-law

noun

ˈin-ˌlȯ How to pronounce in-law (audio)
Synonyms of in-lawnext
: a relative by marriage

Examples of in-law in a Sentence

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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.
Henderson’s four adult children are CPS graduates, as are his parents and in-laws. — Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026 That hasn’t weakened their bond; indeed, Olya even proposed marriage to him, to the surprise and delight of her conservative suburban family, who take it as given that their new in-law is cisgender. — Guy Lodge, Variety, 8 Aug. 2026 Beatrice, along with her husband and stepson, supported her cousin-in-law Kate Middleton at the Together at Christmas carol service in December 2023, spearheaded by the Princess of Wales. — Brendan Le, PEOPLE, 8 Aug. 2026 Qualifying relatives include children, grandchildren, siblings, parents and grandparents, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, and certain in-laws. — Nancy Ashburn, Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 Aug. 2026 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

Rhymes for in-law

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Browse Nearby Words

inlaut
in-law
in-law apartment
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Cite this Entry

“In-law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in-law. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

in-law

noun
ˈin-ˌlȯ
: a relative by marriage

More from Merriam-Webster on in-law

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for in-law

Nglish: Translation of in-law for Spanish Speakers

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