The term “blood relative” is a common phrase used in everyday language, but its meaning and definition can vary. It is a term that is often used to describe the relationship between family members. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of “blood relative,” as well as its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and root words.
Definitions
A blood relative is a family member who is related to another person by blood. This means that they share a common ancestor, whether it is a parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, or further back in the family tree. Blood relatives can include siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives who share a genetic connection.
Origin
The term “blood relative” has been in use for centuries, and its origin can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It was used to describe the relationship between family members who were related by blood, as opposed to those who were related by marriage or adoption.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a blood relative is “a person who is related to another by birth or descent.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a person who is related to another by birth rather than by marriage or adoption.”
Associations
The term “blood relative” is often associated with the concept of family and the importance of genetic connections. It is also associated with inheritance and the passing down of traits and characteristics from one generation to the next.
Synonyms
Synonyms for blood relative include family member, relative, kin, kinsman, kinswoman, and next of kin.
Antonyms
Antonyms for blood relative include non-relative, stranger, and outsider.
The same root words
The root words for blood relative are blood and relative. Blood refers to the genetic connection between family members, while relative refers to the familial relationship between individuals.
Example Sentences
- My blood relatives include my parents, siblings, and grandparents.
- She is my distant blood relative, but we have never met.
- Inheritance laws often favor blood relatives over non-relatives.
- He is not a blood relative, but he has been a part of our family for years.
- I am closer to my non-blood relatives than I am to some of my blood relatives.