father-in-law

noun

ˈfä-t͟hə-rən-ˌlȯ How to pronounce father-in-law (audio)
-t͟hərn-ˌlȯ
plural fathers-in-law ˈfä-t͟hər-zən-ˌlȯ How to pronounce father-in-law (audio)
1
: the father of one's spouse
2
archaic : stepfather

Examples of father-in-law in a Sentence

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.
Since then, my father-in-law has become engaged to a woman who, frankly, is not liked by anyone in our family. Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 19 Feb. 2026 The father-in-law was charged at the time, though prosecutors later dismissed the case. Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 18 Feb. 2026 Fabiana Chiu, David Rinaldi’s wife, who is an arts administrator and visual photographer, said her late father-in-law influenced her, too, giving her tips on manipulating the view to improve the contrast and lighten up the photograph. Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026 In time, Glenn earned his father-in-law’s respect and the love between both families grew strong. Yolanda Harris, AJC.com, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for father-in-law

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of father-in-law was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Father-in-law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/father-in-law. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

father-in-law

noun
fa·​ther-in-law
ˈfät͟h-(ə-)rən-ˌlȯ
ˈfȧt͟h-
-ərn-ˌlȯ
plural fathers-in-law
ˈfät͟h-ər-zən-
ˈfȧt͟h-
: the father of one's husband or wife

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