: 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.
Venting about the situation on the online forum Mumsnet, the woman explained that her wedding organizer gave her in-laws all of the flowers that were at her wedding to take home when the reception venue had to be cleared. Latoya Gayle, People.com, 2 Aug. 2025 The conundrum is thus not whether to allow in-laws into the business. Lisa Zeiderman, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025 Alas, they’re meant for a less collegial relationship — at least once the Jackal deals with reneging clients, skin-of-his-teeth escapes, disguises worthy of Industrial Light and Magic, and a kinda complicated in-law situation. Tanya Melendez, EW.com, 1 Aug. 2025 Brian appeared at his in-laws' home later that afternoon. Doc Louallen, ABC News, 31 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for in-law

Word History

Etymology

mother-in-law, etc.

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of in-law was in 1894

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In-law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in-law. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

in-law

noun
ˈin-ˌlȯ
: a relative by marriage

More from Merriam-Webster on in-law

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