Sisterly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sisterly

[หˆsษชstษ™rli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

relationship qualities

Sisterly refers to characteristics or qualities that are typical of a sister. It often encompasses feelings of closeness, support, and affection that one might expect in a sisterly bond. This term can describe interactions that are nurturing and protective in nature. It signifies a strong emotional connection, often characterized by unconditional loyalty and care.

Synonyms

affectionate, caring, nurturing, protective, sibling-like.

Examples of usage

  • She gave her sisterly advice to help with the decision.
  • Their sisterly bond grew stronger over the years.
  • She welcomed her new friend into her group with a sisterly warmth.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, sisterhood is celebrated as a sacred bond, symbolizing support and loyalty, often depicted in stories and art.
  • Sisterly relationships can be an essential theme in films and literature, emphasizing themes of love, rivalry, and growth.
  • Some cultures hold sisterly bonds in high regard, celebrating them with rituals or traditions that highlight their importance in family dynamics.

Psychology

  • Studies show that having sisters can lead to higher emotional intelligence, as siblings often navigate complex relationships together.
  • Positive sisterly dynamics can contribute to better mental health, creating deep emotional support systems.
  • Research indicates that sisterly bonds often exhibit unique patterns of communication and conflict resolution, demonstrating mutual understanding.

Literature

  • Many classic novels explore sisterly themes, such as 'Little Women', where the March sisters embody different aspects of sisterly love and conflict.
  • Poetry often celebrates sisterly connections, emphasizing themes of companionship, advocacy, and shared memories.
  • Folklore from various cultures often depicts sisters as pivotal characters whose relationships drive the narrative.

Pop Culture

  • Popular TV shows often highlight sisterly relationships, such as 'Sister, Sister' and 'Parks and Recreation', showcasing the bond and humor between sisters.
  • Movies frequently depict sisterly love, sometimes in comedic formats like 'Bridesmaids', where sisterly support plays a key role.
  • In music, many artists explore themes of sisterhood, celebrating both the joys and struggles of having a sister.

Origin of 'sisterly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English word 'sweoster', which means sister, showing a long history of how we view sisterly relationships.
  • Sisterly is related to the word 'sibling', which refers to brothers and sisters alike, but emphasizes the special bond with sisters.
  • In many languages, the concept of sister encompasses both familial ties and deep emotional connections.

The term 'sisterly' is derived from the word 'sister', which originates from the Old English 'sweostor', meaning female sibling. The evolution continued through the Germanic languages, where similar terms illustrate a familial bond. The suffix '-ly' is added to form the adjective, describing qualities associated with being a sister. The concept of sisterhood has deep roots in many cultures, often linked with themes of loyalty, kinship, and support. Over time, 'sisterly' has come to encapsulate a broad range of supportive and affectionate behaviors that go beyond mere biological relationships, reflecting the nurturing nature many associate with sisters, whether by blood or by choice.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,420 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.