Cousin

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

English: /ˈkʌz.ən/

Definitions

• A child of one's uncle or aunt.
• A relative descended from a common ancestor, but not a direct sibling.

Usage Examples

• "My cousin and I grew up together."
• "She invited all her cousins to the wedding."

Etymology

From Old French "cousin," derived from Latin "consobrinus," meaning "child of one’s maternal uncle or aunt."

Synonyms

• Relative
• Kin
• Family member

Antonyms

• Stranger
• Unrelated person

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In the U.S.: /ˈkʌz.ən/

In the U.K.: /ˈkʊz.ɪn/

In Australia: /ˈkʌz.ən/

Historical Usage

The term "cousin" has been used since the Middle Ages to describe extended family relationships, often in royal and noble lineages.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the word "cousin" can also be used informally for close friends or distant relatives. In some societies, cousins can marry, while in others, it is discouraged or prohibited.

More Information

Cousins play an important role in many family structures. In some cultures, cousins are as close as siblings and frequently share homes or are raised together. The definition of cousin varies; in some legal and genealogical contexts, it includes second and third cousins who share common great-grandparents or beyond. The importance of cousins in family gatherings, inheritance, and kinship differs globally.