next of kin

noun phrase

: one or more persons in the nearest degree of relationship to another person

Examples of next of kin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The agency was still working to notify next of kin, a spokesperson said. — Cristóbal Reyes, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 June 2026

Her surviving next of kin has since been notified of her identification. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 5 July 2026

The victims’ identities have not been released pending notification of next of kin. — Mirna Alsharif, NBC news, 28 June 2026

The Navy said the Marine's identity is being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin are notified. — Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 28 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for next of kin

• aneurin
• crystallin
• eosin
• mandolin
• porphyrin
• superfine
• underpin
• vietminh
• violin
• akin
• auxin
• buckskin

Legal Definition

next of kin

1

: one or more living persons in the nearest degree of relationship to a particular individual

2

: those persons entitled by statute to receive the property in an intestate's estate compare heir