kinship

noun

kin·​ship ˈkin-ˌship How to pronounce kinship (audio)
Synonyms of kinshipnext
: 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.
Because at its core, this legal drama that revolves around artificial intelligence is actually rooted in the very human impulses of kinship, greed, betrayal, and power. Tom Dotan, Vanity Fair, 27 Apr. 2026 These moments hint at a distinct identity for the two, one built from contrast and ATLien kinship. Oba Awolowo, Pitchfork, 27 Apr. 2026 His mother felt a kinship with Pittsburgh, and would tune into Steelers games in the 1970s. Ayana Archie, NPR, 24 Apr. 2026 The costars forged a close kinship. Katie Schultz, Architectural Digest, 20 Apr. 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 28 Apr. 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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