Twins: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for two children born to the same mother at the same time. It is neutral and can be used in any formal or informal situation.

• The twins celebrated their birthday together.
• She has twins, a boy and a girl.

This term is less common and is more formal. It might be used in scientific or academic discussions about siblings.

• The study focused on the health differences within a sibling pair.
• In our family tree, there is a notable sibling pair born during the 1900s.

A neutral and inclusive term that does not specify gender. It is suitable for both formal and informal settings.

• The twin siblings always play together.
• Their relationship as twin siblings is very strong.

Specific term for describing twins where both are boys or both are girls. This can be used in any situation where gender needs to be specified.

• The twin brothers are both athletes.
• The twin sisters have identical tastes in fashion.

Used repetitively in the context of identical or fraternal siblings.

• The school has a special program for twins
• They named their characters Twinkle and Sparkle as they are twins

Commonly used for two things that are similar or intended to be used together, not necessarily identical.

• I need a new pair of shoes
• They make a great pair of friends

Often used to describe items that are identical or very similar and meant to go together.

• She bought a matching set of dishes for her new apartment
• The living room has a matching set of chairs