akin

adjective

ə-ˈkin 

1

: related by blood : descended from a common ancestor or prototype

The dog and fox are closely akin.

2

: essentially similar, related, or compatible

His interests are akin to mine.

Synonyms of akin

• related
• comparable

Examples of akin in a Sentence

The two languages are closely akin.

foxes are closely akin to dogs

Recent Examples on the Web

Some experts suggest a deal akin to nuclear arms control, with verification and mutual constraint, would be the way forward. — Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 29 July 2026

This strategy, akin to open-source software, ensures companies retain control and value, fostering innovation and avoiding dependency on single providers, a sentiment widely endorsed across the industry. — Don Muir, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

In one 2018 lecture for the American Association of Political Consultants, Taylor described political candidates as akin to readymades, referencing Duchamp’s famed invention, which includes Fountain (1917), a porcelain urinal–cum–sculpture. — Harrison Jacobs, ARTnews.com, 28 July 2026

The remaining 18 players were dissatisfied with the safeguards the league has instituted to prevent a situation akin to the Clase-Ortiz scandal. — Zack Meisel, New York Times, 28 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

a- entry 1 + kin entry 1

First Known Use

1525, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for akin

• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• crankpin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin
• pinyin

Kids Definition

akin

adjective

ə-ˈkin 

1

: related by blood

2

: essentially similar or related