Definitions

next of kin

NOUN

closest relative

Synonyms

WEAK

heir kinsman near relative relation relative sibling

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A man in his 50s was confirmed dead and his next of kin have been informed, Kent Police said.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

How does one go about helping a very elderly man who has only me as his next of kin?

From MarketWatch • Mar. 21, 2026

Identities of the deceased service members will be withheld for 24 hours after next of kin is informed.

From Salon • Mar. 13, 2026

A local magistrate ordered that the bodies be handed over to the Iranian embassy in Colombo for repatriation to the next of kin.

From Barron's • Mar. 13, 2026

“How can Rasseem be your next of kin? He practically hates you!”

From "The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams" by Daniel Nayeri