cousins - Master This Word
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cousins Word Meanings
- a child of one's aunt or uncle
- someone who shares a grandparent
- a close friend or companion.
cousins Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cousins Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkʌz.ən/
US
/ˈkʌz.ɪn/
cousins Word Etymology
cousin = co- (together) + sin (blood relation). Origin: Latin (consobrinus) → Old French (cosin) → English. Imagine two children playing together, representing their family ties, while one says, 'We're cousins!'.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the old photo album and pull out a picture of a kid waving at the camera. The page turns and the faces blur into a familiar aunt, uncles, and a cousin I grew up playing tag with. I push the memory a little, and the moment shifts—from a simple name to a warm feeling I keep as a tie to family. When I tell a friend about that person, I say cousin, and the word settles into a casual, close space, like a shared story we can always revisit.
Real Context
Cousin is a noun for a family member who shares one or more grandparents with you. It usually refers to the child of your aunt or uncle, whether on your mother’s side or your father’s side. In everyday English, cousins are often described as people you grew up with, or as close companions tied by family memories. The term can also be used more loosely to describe a close friend or ally who feels like family. Etymology: from co- (together) + sin (blood relation), through Latin consobrinus, Old French cosin, into English.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: - Cousin is gender-neutral in English. - You can say first cousin or second cousin to show degree. - 'Cousin' can be used metaphorically for a close friend. - For male/female forms in other languages, use the local gendered term. - Use possessive forms: my cousin, your cousin; avoid 'cousin's' as a family name.
Common Misconceptions
- Cousin is always the child of a parent’s sibling
- Cousin only means a blood relative, never a close friend
- Cousin is always male
- A cousin and a cousin-in-law are the same thing
- Cousin refers only to first-degree relatives; there is no such thing as second cousins
Thinking Differences
In English, cousin emphasizes blood relation within a defined family tree and is gender-neutral, encouraging precise terms like first or second cousin to show closeness or distance.
Learning Tips
- Learn first/second cousin terms to be precise
- Practice using 'cousin' for both genders
- Note metaphorical uses to refer to close friends
- Memorize the gendered terms in your language
- Distinguish cousin from cousin-in-law
- Use correct plural: cousins
Related Listening
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