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sibling

/ˈsɪblɪŋ/
noun★Intermediate
formal

A brother or sister; a person who shares at least one parent with another person.

My sibling lives in another city, so we only see each other during holidays.

My brother or sister lives elsewhere, so we meet mainly on holidays.

💡

The term is gender‑neutral and can refer to either a full sibling, half‑sibling, or step‑sibling.

Collocations

older siblinga sibling who is older than youyounger siblinga sibling who is younger than youclose sibling relationshipa strong, supportive bond between siblings

Synonyms

Related Phrases

step siblingphrase
a child of one's step‑parent, not biologically related
half siblingphrase
a sibling who shares only one parent

💡Pro Tip

Gender‑neutral reference

Choose 'sibling' instead of 'brother' or 'sister' when you don't need to specify gender.

⚡Gold Rule

Inclusive family talk

When discussing family dynamics, 'sibling' keeps the conversation inclusive of all genders.

📖Word Origin

From Old English 'sibb' meaning 'kin, relative' + diminutive suffix '-ling', originally meaning 'a person of kin'.

📝Usage Notes

Use 'sibling' when gender is irrelevant or when referring to both brothers and sisters collectively.

Word Breakdown

sib
kin, relative
root
+
-ling
person associated with
suffix
English Dictionary

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