Cousin

Definition

Cousin is a noun that refers to the child of one’s aunt or uncle. More generally, it can also refer to a relative beyond immediate family members or someone sharing a common ancestor within a family.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌzɪn/
• Respelling: KUHZ-in

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkʌzɪn/
• Respelling: KUHZ-in

Etymology

The word "cousin" originates from the Latin word "consobrinus," meaning "child of one’s mother’s sister." In Old French, it became "cousin," retaining its meaning of familial relation, and was adopted into Middle English to denote the child of one’s aunt or uncle.

Derivatives

• Cousinly (adjective)
• First cousin (noun)
• Second cousin (noun)
• Cross-cousin (noun)
• Kissing cousin (noun)

Synonyms

• Relative
• Kin
• Family member

Antonyms

• Stranger
• Acquaintance
• None

Usage

The term "cousin" is commonly used to refer to extended family members, particularly the child of one’s aunt or uncle. For example, "I’m visiting my cousin during the holidays." It also serves to denote familial connections beyond the immediate family.

Related Terms

• Sibling: A brother or sister.
• Aunt: The sister of one’s parent.
• Uncle: The brother of one’s parent.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The child of one’s aunt or uncle: Refers to a family member who shares one or more grandparents with the person.
  • Example: "Her cousin is coming to stay for the summer."
• A relative more distantly related than a sibling: Used broadly to refer to people in the same extended family or sharing an ancestor.
  • Example: "He discovered he had a distant cousin in another country."