Sister

Definition

The term "sister" refers to a female sibling or a woman who shares a close relationship of solidarity, friendship, or kinship. It can also denote a member of a religious community.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪs.tɚ/
• Respelling: SIS-ter

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪs.tə/
• Respelling: SIS-tuh

Etymology

The word "sister" originates from the Old English "sweostor," which comes from Proto-Germanic "*swestrō" and Proto-Indo-European "*swésōr," meaning "sister." The term has been used in familial, communal, and religious contexts for centuries.

Derivatives

• Sisterhood (noun)
• Sisterly (adjective)
• Stepsister (noun)
• Half-sister (noun)
• Sibling (noun, related term)

Synonyms

• Sib
• Nun (in religious context)
• Comrade

Antonyms

• Brother
• None
• None

Usage

The term "sister" is widely used in familial relationships, religious communities, and close friendships. For example: "She is my younger sister," or "The nuns in the convent are addressed as sisters."

Related Terms

• Brother: A male sibling.
• Sibling: A gender-neutral term for brothers or sisters.
• Sorority: A sisterhood, often in academic or social contexts.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A female sibling: Refers to a woman who shares at least one parent with another person.
  • Example: "My sister is two years younger than me."
• A woman in a religious community: Refers to a nun or a woman belonging to a religious order.
  • Example: "Sister Mary has dedicated her life to service."
• A close female companion or ally: Refers to a woman who shares a strong bond or solidarity with others.
  • Example: "She is like a sister to me."