father-in-law

noun

ˈfä-t͟hə-rən-ˌlȯ 

-t͟hərn-ˌlȯ

plural fathers-in-law ˈfä-t͟hər-zən-ˌlȯ 

1

: the father of one's spouse

2

archaic : stepfather

Examples of father-in-law in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

What started at the behest of her father-in-law, who wanted the historic landmark back in the family, has become a personal mission: to maintain The Colony’s traditional elements while adding modern touches and unexpected moments. —Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 9 Dec. 2024

Lara Trump said her father-in-law is focused on his legacy during his final upcoming term. —Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 9 Dec. 2024

Trump, who is married to President-elect 's son Eric, was elected the co-chair of the RNC in March after her father-in-law endorsed her for the role. —Khaleda Rahman, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024

Lara Trump emerged as a top adviser to her father-in-law’s campaign in 2020, again with a focus on female voters. —Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 9 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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