mother-in-law
UK: ˈmʌðər ɪn lɔː | US: ˈmʌðər ɪn lɔː
n. the mother of one’s spouse
The term "mother-in-law" combines "mother" (Old English mōdor, meaning female parent) with "in-law," a phrase denoting familial relations through marriage rather than blood. The "in-law" component originates from Middle English in lawe, reflecting the legal (law) bond created by marriage. Historically, this construction emerged to distinguish biological relatives from those acquired through marital ties, emphasizing the social and legal nature of the relationship.
She has a close relationship with her mother-in-law.
My mother-in-law taught me how to make traditional dishes.
He visits his mother-in-law every weekend.
Conflicts between a wife and her mother-in-law are common in many cultures.
Her mother-in-law gifted her a family heirloom.