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=== Relationships and Forms of Address === | === Relationships and Forms of Address === | ||
The meaning of terms used for relationships has changed over time. We have a limited definition of the term ''‘in-laws’'' | The meaning of terms used for relationships has changed over time. We have a limited definition of the term ''‘in-laws’'' as those related in certain ways by marriage. A novice family historian is shocked at her first encounter with a 3-year-old daughter-in-law, and puzzled by a man describing his father’s new wife as his mother-in-law. In former times the term encompassed all those who ‘in the eyes of the law’ were related, thus a step-child or step-mother fit the definition. Likewise the terms ''sister'' and ''brother'' would be used for sister-in-law and brother-in-law. | ||
Before the 18th century the terms ''nephew'' and ''niece'' meant any descendant or younger relative, not just the child of a brother or sister. Likewise uncle and aunt could refer to any older relative. Beware also the ‘courtesy’ ''aunts and uncles'', usually close friends of their parents in a time when children would not address an adult by their first name. Many a child has thought they had a rich relative when mother talked of ‘going to see uncle,’ whose residence contained a large amount of valuable silver and jewellery. Only later in life did they realize that mother was making her regular visit to the pawnshop! | Before the 18th century the terms ''nephew'' and ''niece'' meant any descendant or younger relative, not just the child of a brother or sister. Likewise uncle and aunt could refer to any older relative. Beware also the ‘courtesy’ ''aunts and uncles'', usually close friends of their parents in a time when children would not address an adult by their first name. Many a child has thought they had a rich relative when mother talked of ‘going to see uncle,’ whose residence contained a large amount of valuable silver and jewellery. Only later in life did they realize that mother was making her regular visit to the pawnshop! | ||
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