Cousin Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkaʊsɪn/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A person related to another by the blood tie of a sibling’s child or a parent’s sibling, typically considered a member of one’s extended family.

Examples

• The family gathered for the cousin’s wedding.
• My cousin is visiting from out of town.

Etymology

The word “cousin” comes from the Early Modern English “cosyn”, which is derived from the Old English “cossin”, meaning “related by blood”.

Usage Notes

Cousin is often used as a term of address or reference to a relative who belongs to one’s own generation or is slightly older or younger.

Cultural References

Cousin has been featured in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television, often representing a close and endearing family relationship.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• A cousin once removed
• A first cousin

Related Words or Phrases

Collocations

• Cousin’s child
• Cousin’s mother/father

Frequency of Use

The word “cousin” is relatively common in everyday conversation, particularly in family settings and social gatherings.

Common Misspellings

• Cousun
• Kousin