Stepchild: meaning, definitions and examples
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stepchild
[ˈstepˌtʃaɪld ]
Definition
family relation
A stepchild is a child of one's spouse from a previous relationship. In most cases, a stepchild is not biologically related to one of the parents. However, in blended families, stepchildren often develop strong emotional connections with their stepparents. Legally, a stepparent may have certain rights or duties towards a stepchild, although this varies by jurisdiction. The dynamics of stepfamilies can differ widely, creating unique challenges and opportunities.
Synonyms
blended child, bonus child, stepkid.
Examples of usage
- She treats her stepchild as her own.
- His stepchild is graduating next month.
- They adopted a stepchild after their marriage.
- Stepchildren may have different needs in a blended family.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'stepchild' dates back to Middle English, combining 'step' (from 'steop', meaning orphaned) with 'child'.
- In many cultures, 'step' indicates a relationship that is not blood-related but formed by marriage.
Cultural Perspectives
- In various folklore, stepchildren often face challenges but also opportunities for growth, reflecting the complexities of blended families.
- Pop culture sometimes portrays stepchildren as facing adversity, but this narrative can inspire resilience and unity among families.
Psychology
- Research indicates that stepchildren may experience feelings of jealousy or insecurity due to their new family dynamics.
- Positive reinforcement and open communication are key factors in creating healthy relationships between stepchildren and stepparents.
Legal Context
- In many regions, stepchildren can inherit from a stepparent if legal adoption occurs, altering estate planning considerations.
- Some jurisdictions offer rights and responsibilities for stepparents, acknowledging the emotional bonds formed through marriage.
Literature and Media
- Classic fairy tales often feature stepchildren in central roles, such as Cinderella, reflecting societal views on family and merit.
- Modern literature explores the dynamics of stepfamilies, showcasing the evolution of relationships and acceptance.
Translations
Translations of the word "stepchild" in other languages:
🇵🇹 enteado
🇮🇳 सौतेला बच्चा
🇩🇪 Stiefkind
- Stieftochter
- Stiefsohn
🇮🇩 anak tiri
- anak tiri perempuan
- anak tiri laki-laki
🇺🇦 падчерка
🇵🇱 dziecko przybrane
- pasierb
- pasierbica
🇯🇵 継子
- 継娘
- 継息子
🇫🇷 beau-fils
🇪🇸 hijastro
🇹🇷 üvey çocuk
- üvey oğul
- üvey kız
🇰🇷 의붓 자식
- 의붓 아들
- 의붓 딸
🇸🇦 ابن زوج
🇨🇿 nevlastní dítě
- nevlastní syn
- nevlastní dcera
🇸🇰 nevlastné dieťa
- nevlastný syn
- nevlastná dcéra
🇨🇳 继子
🇸🇮 pomožni otrok
- posinak
- posek
🇮🇸 stefnibarn
- stjúpa
- stjúpsonur
🇰🇿 сүйек бала
- асыранды бала
- асыранды қыз
🇬🇪 ბიძაშვილი
- stepson
- stepdaughter
🇦🇿 övlad
- ögey oğul
- ögey qız
🇲🇽 hijo adoptivo