Kinsman/kinswoman

A kinsman (male) or kinswoman (female) is a person who is related to another by blood or marriage; a relative. This relationship can encompass a wide range of familial ties, extending from immediate family members like parents, siblings, and children, to more distant relatives such as aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and in-laws. The term often implies a connection stemming from a shared ancestry, ethnicity, or clan. The strength of the bond between kinsmen or kinswomen can vary greatly, depending on factors such as geographical proximity, shared experiences, cultural norms, and personal relationships. In many societies, the concept of kinship plays a crucial role in social organization, legal inheritance, and the formation of familial support networks. Recognition of kinsmen/kinswomen and adherence to customs can establish social rules, responsibilities, and alliances, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity across generations.

Kinsman/kinswoman meaning with examples

• In the old country, the extended family remained close-knit, supporting each other through thick and thin. When my grandfather emigrated, he brought his kinsmen with him, creating a small but tight community in their new home. Their strong sense of obligation to each other was rooted in the traditional customs and practices of their homeland, where family was considered the most important unit.
• The inheritance was disputed by several kinsmen. Each claimed a closer familial link to the deceased. The ensuing legal battle underscored the significance of kinship ties and bloodlines, as the court had to determine the rightful heirs. Lawyers pored over genealogical records and family trees trying to ascertain each kinsman's legitimacy as a beneficiary.
• The injured soldier looked around for any familiar faces on the battlefield. He was heartened to see his kinsmen fighting beside him, giving him courage when all else seemed lost. They were trained to rely on one another and understood the importance of camaraderie, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose among them in the chaos.
• The family reunion was a joyous event, bringing together kinsmen from far and wide. Cousins and aunts traveled across the country to reconnect, share stories, and rekindle bonds formed long ago. Amidst the laughter and reminiscences, new relationships blossomed, strengthening the sense of family and belonging.
• Shakespeare often employed the themes of love, betrayal, and conflict between kinsmen in his plays. The tragic story of Romeo and Juliet serves as a prime example, where the feud between two families tears the individuals and blood relatives apart.