consanguinity

noun

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con·san·guin·i·ty | \ ˌkän-ˌsan-ˈgwi-nə-tē

, -ˌsaŋ- \

plural consanguinities

Definition of consanguinity

1 : the quality or state of being consanguineous persons related by consanguinity

2 : a close relation or connection the consanguinity of monotheistic religions

Examples of consanguinity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Although no one discusses it, consanguinity appears to be a given. — Alissa Simon, Variety, 22 Nov. 2021 The risk of unintentional consanguinity—the technical term for relatives hooking up—remains small, but looms large in the minds of those conceived via anonymous sperm donation. — Caitlin Harrington, Wired, 30 July 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'consanguinity.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.