kinship

[kin-ship]

noun

1. the state or fact of being of kin; family relationship.

   Synonyms: connection

2. relationship by nature, qualities, etc.; affinity.

   Synonyms: bearing, connection

kinship

/ ˈkɪnʃɪp /

noun

1. blood relationship

2. the state of having common characteristics or a common origin

kinship

1. A relation between two or more persons that is based on common ancestry (descent) or marriage (affinity).

Word History and Origins

Origin of kinship¹

First recorded in 1825–35; kin + -ship

Synonym Study

See relationship.

Example Sentences

The department added it was "committed to ensuring adopted and kinship families continue to receive the help they need to thrive".

From BBC

When they did, Kuang realized that “there is something there that I feel a kinship to.”

From Los Angeles Times

"It becomes a way to find a kinship, a community that no matter where you are, you could find a pub with other fans of your team," she said.

From BBC

And though he would never compare himself to the Spanish painter, Khondji says he found a kinship in the way he described his artistic practice.

From Los Angeles Times

While her father adamantly denied it, Hargitay sought an answer from Sardelli himself at one of his shows in Vegas, and the two immediately formed a kinship that spent 30 years as a secret.

From Salon

Related Words

• affinity