next of kin

noun phrase

: one or more persons in the nearest degree of relationship to another person

Examples of next of kin 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.
The five individuals identities’ have not yet been released as authorities work to notify next of kin. Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 1 May 2026 The Dallas County Medical Examiner’s Office will identify the person who died after next of kin have been notified. Shambhavi Rimal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2026 When reached on April 24, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in West Virginia told PEOPLE that state law limits the release of autopsy information to next of kin and law enforcement. Janelle Griffith, PEOPLE, 24 Apr. 2026 Deputies have not released the inmate's identity pending notification of next of kin. Tim Fang, CBS News, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for next of kin

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of next of kin was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Next of kin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/next%20of%20kin. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

Legal Definition

next of kin

1
: one or more living persons in the nearest degree of relationship to a particular individual
2
: those persons entitled by statute to receive the property in an intestate's estate compare heir
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