Kin

usgb/kɪn/
noun

People who are related to you by blood or marriage.

She has gone to visit her kin in Australia
Visual representation of "kin" - People who are related to you by blood or marriage

Often appears as...

  • next of kin
  • of kin
Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "kin"
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Cultural Sensitivity

The concept of who counts as 'kin' can vary widely across different cultures, including extended family or clan members.

Illustration for Cultural Sensitivity
In many cultures, 'kin' means all the members of the extended family, not just parents and siblings.
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Formal Use

When referring to relatives, 'kin' often appears in more formal or legal contexts compared to 'family'.

Illustration for Formal Use
The will stated that the property was to be divided amongst his next of kin.
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Emotional Distance

Using 'kin' instead of 'family' can imply a certain distance or formality in the relationship.

Illustration for Emotional Distance
She rarely sees her kin as they live abroad.
Visual representation of the word "Kin"

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