father-in-law

noun

ˈfä-t͟hə-rən-ˌlȯ How to pronounce father-in-law (audio)
-t͟hərn-ˌlȯ
plural fathers-in-law ˈfä-t͟hər-zən-ˌlȯ How to pronounce father-in-law (audio)
1
: the father of one's spouse
2
archaic : stepfather

Examples of father-in-law in a Sentence

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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.
The pair also meet Sheriff Kerry Kane (Kelly Macdonald) and her wealthy, deeply suspicious father-in-law William Macon (Garret Dillahunt), who possesses an unusual amount of knowledge about aliens. — Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 Fellers' father-in-law, Eldon Rash, then put the wristband on. — Brieanna J. Frank, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 Verrett’s surgery took place at Oslo University Hospital, where his father-in-law, King Harald, remains hospitalized with his own health issues. — Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 26 Aug. 2026 Her father-in-law King Charles and Queen Camilla made a surprise cameo on the show in 2022, interacting with residents during a Platinum Jubilee street party. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for father-in-law

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of father-in-law was in the 14th century

Rhymes for father-in-law

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Cite this Entry

“Father-in-law.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/father-in-law. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

father-in-law

noun
fa·​ther-in-law
ˈfät͟h-(ə-)rən-ˌlȯ, 
ˈfȧt͟h-, 
-ərn-ˌlȯ
plural fathers-in-law
ˈfät͟h-ər-zən-, 
ˈfȧt͟h-
: the father of one's husband or wife
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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