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.
Her motive wasn’t a major part of the trial, but evidence presented by the prosecution suggested her relationship with her in-laws had deteriorated. — Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026 The British-Argentine actor’s point has less to do with her conflicted con artist cheating death numerous times and besting her mobster in-laws, as well as the FBI. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 20 Aug. 2026 Lownie also alleged that Eugenie’s husband Jack, as well as Princess Beatrice’s husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, don’t want to spend time with their in-laws. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 18 Aug. 2026 Mother has called out the letter writer for ignoring her, being a bad parent and seeing in-laws more, but seems to be escalating. — Carolyn Hax, Washington Post, 17 Aug. 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 21 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

in-law

noun
ˈin-ˌlȯ
: a relative by marriage

More from Merriam-Webster on in-law

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for in-law

Nglish: Translation of in-law for Spanish Speakers

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