kinship

noun

kin·​ship ˈkin-ˌship How to pronounce kinship (audio)
Synonyms of kinship
: the quality or state of being kin : relationship

Examples of kinship in a Sentence

He feels a strong kinship with other survivors of the war. feelings of kinship between the team's players and their fans
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.
Indigenous citizens of many distinct nations, too, crafted a relatively expansive vision of unity, one nurtured by kinship, diplomacy, and religion. Literary Hub, 26 May 2026 Even at what Green noted is one of the largest non-religious gatherings of human beings in the world, the crowd packed into the track, there is a kinship in watching the 33 cars circling together. Luke Smith, New York Times, 21 May 2026 Raise the Future offers Family Support Services that provide in-home counseling for foster, adoptive, and kinship families. Libby Smith, CBS News, 20 May 2026 This novel explores themes of the responsibilities and expectations of mothers and daughters, the dream vs. the reality of family ties, and the power of kinship, whether biological or chosen. Barbara Ellis, Denver Post, 17 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for kinship

Word History

Etymology

see kin entry 1

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kinship was in 1833

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Kinship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kinship. Accessed 2 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

kinship

noun
kin·​ship ˈkin-ˌship How to pronounce kinship (audio)
: the quality or state of being kin : relationship

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