Aunts-in-law – Definition & Meaning

Conclusion

Family relationships can be complicated, especially when it comes to extended family. One such relationship that can be confusing is that of aunts-in-law. This article will provide a comprehensive definition and meaning of aunts-in-law, as well as explore their origin, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.

Definitions

An aunt-in-law is a woman who is married to one’s uncle or is the sister of one’s spouse. The term “in-law” is used to describe a relationship that is created through marriage rather than blood. Therefore, an aunt-in-law is not a biological aunt, but rather a relative through marriage.

Origin

The term “in-law” has been used since the 14th century to describe a legal relationship created by marriage. It comes from the Old English word “hlāford,” which means “loaf-warden” or “bread-keeper.” In medieval times, when a man married a woman, he became responsible for her financial support, including providing her with bread. Therefore, the term “in-law” referred to someone who had a legal obligation to provide for another person.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The meaning of aunts-in-law is consistent across different dictionaries. Merriam-Webster defines an aunt-in-law as “the wife of one’s uncle or the sister of one’s spouse.” Oxford Languages defines it as “the wife of one’s uncle or the sister of one’s spouse.”

Associations

Aunts-in-law are often considered to be part of one’s extended family. They may attend family gatherings and events, and may even play a role in the upbringing of their nieces and nephews. However, the level of involvement may vary depending on the individual relationship.

Synonyms

There are no commonly used synonyms for aunts-in-law. However, some people may use terms like “auntie” or “aunt” as a term of endearment for their aunts-in-law.

Antonyms

The antonyms of aunts-in-law are uncles-in-law and nieces/nephews-in-law.

The same root words

The root words of aunts-in-law are “aunt” and “in-law.” “Aunt” is a Middle English word that comes from the Old French “ante,” which means “paternal aunt.” “In-law” comes from the Old English “hlāford,” which means “loaf-warden” or “bread-keeper.”

Example Sentences

  1. My aunt-in-law is coming to visit us next week.
  2. I love spending time with my sister-in-law and aunt-in-law.
  3. My uncle and aunt-in-law have been married for over 30 years.

In conclusion, aunts-in-law are relatives through marriage who are either married to one’s uncle or are the sister of one’s spouse. The term “in-law” has been used since the 14th century to describe a legal relationship created by marriage. Aunts-in-law are often considered part of one’s extended family and may attend family gatherings and events. While there are no commonly used synonyms for aunts-in-law, some people may use terms like “auntie” or “aunt” as a term of endearment.

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