in-law

noun

ˈin-ˌlȯ How to pronounce in-law (audio)
Synonyms of in-lawnext
: a relative by marriage

Examples of in-law in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As a game of Guess Who broke the ice between the in-laws, the would-be-weds headed home early ahead of the following day’s rehearsal, bringing along an abundance of colorful glassware and audio equipment from their own home. — Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2026 In 2023, Erin Patterson (Lynskey) served individual beef wellingtons to her estranged in-laws and their relatives at a lunch in her Victoria home in Australia. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 27 Oct. 2026 What did the Father of the Bride house tell you about that family, or what did the in-laws’ house tell you about them? — Elise Taylor, Vanity Fair, 26 Oct. 2026 Later, Walzer’s father got a job, through his in-laws, at a jewelry store in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, where the family joined a Reform congregation. — Jordi Graupera, New Yorker, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for in-law

Word History

Etymology

mother-in-law, etc.

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in-law was in 1892

Rhymes for in-law

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Browse Nearby Words

inlaut
in-law
in-law apartment
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Cite this Entry

“In-law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in-law. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

in-law

noun
ˈin-ˌlȯ
: a relative by marriage

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