Meaning of Word
Siblings refers to brothers and sisters collectively, or more generally, the individuals who share at least one biological or legal parent.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Brothers and sisters; members of the same family.
- People who share common parents or a similar family background.
- Relatives who are connected by blood or legal ties as children of the same parents.
History and Origin
The word siblings originated in the Middle English period and comes from the Old English word sibling, which originally referred to a “brother or sister.” The term evolved over time to specifically denote brothers and sisters collectively. Historically, the word “sibling” was used to refer to any family member, but in modern English, it has become synonymous with “brother” or “sister” in a broader sense.
Detailed Explanation
Siblings are individuals who are related by having the same parents, whether through biological or legal means. The term is inclusive, referring to both brothers and sisters, and can apply to people of all ages and familial structures. Siblings often share a familial bond that can be both supportive and challenging, as relationships can range from close and nurturing to distant and competitive. Siblings can play vital roles in each other’s lives, serving as companions, confidants, or even rivals. The dynamic among siblings varies widely depending on family culture, age differences, and individual personalities.
Example Sentences
- My siblings and I grew up in a small town near the mountains.
- They have a close relationship, always supporting each other like true siblings.
- He has two siblings, a brother and a sister, who both live overseas.
- Despite their differences, the siblings always come together for family gatherings.
- The siblings spent the summer vacation traveling together.
- As the oldest of three siblings, she often took on the role of caretaker.
- The siblings argued over what to watch on TV, but eventually reached a compromise.
- My siblings and I share a passion for music, which keeps us close.
- They were separated as children but reunited as siblings later in life.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Brothers – Male siblings, individuals sharing the same parents.
- Sisters – Female siblings, individuals related by the same parents.
- Kin – A broad term for family members, including siblings.
- Relatives – Family members, encompassing both direct and extended family, including siblings.
- Family members – Individuals who belong to the same family, typically including siblings.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Parent – A mother or father, whose children (siblings) are their offspring.
- Cousins – Children of a person’s aunt or uncle, related to siblings but not direct siblings.
- Sibling rivalry – The competition, jealousy, or tension between brothers and sisters.
- Family – A group of people related by blood, marriage, or other bonds, including siblings.
- Lineage – The direct descent from an ancestor, often including siblings as part of the family line.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Brotherhood – A close association or bond among brothers, often used to describe the relationship between male siblings.
- Sisterhood – The bond or relationship shared among sisters.
- Clan – A group of people, typically from the same family, often including siblings.
- Offspring – The children of parents, which includes siblings.
- Heritage – The traditions, culture, and legacy passed down within a family, often including siblings in shared heritage.
Antonyms
- Stranger
- Outsider
- Non-relative
- Alien
- Foreigner
