Meaning & Definition of word "Cousin"

Cousin

/ˈkʌz.ən/

noun:

  • 1. The child of one's uncle or aunt.
    • Example: I was excited to see my cousin at the family reunion.
  • 2. A term of endearment sometimes used for a close friend, even if not related by blood.
    • Example: She's like a sister to me; I consider her my cousin.
  • 3. Used informally to refer to someone who is of a similar kind or character.
    • Example: In a way, baseball and cricket are cousins in the realm of sports.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'cosin', from Latin 'consobrinus', meaning 'a maternal cousin'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

first cousin:

The child of one's aunt or uncle.

second cousin:

The child of one's parent's first cousin.

kissing cousins:

Close friends or associates who act like family.

Related Words

uncle:

The brother of one's father or mother.

aunt:

The sister of one's father or mother.

niece:

A daughter of one's brother or sister.

Slang Meanings of cousin

Meaning: Cuz

Example Sentence: Hey, what's up, cuz?

Meaning: Cuzz

Example Sentence: I saw my cuzz at the party last night.