cognata
/koɲˈɲa.ta/
The English phrase "sister-in-law" is translated into Italian as cognata.
cognata refers to the sister of one's spouse or the wife of one's sibling.
How does it change in a sentence?
cognata is a feminine noun. Its plural form is cognate.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable. The IPA is /koɲˈɲa.ta/.
Did you know?
- The masculine form cognato is used for a brother-in-law, but it is also the word used for a 'cognate' in linguistics, such as words that share a common ancestor.
- Etymologically, the word comes from the Latin 'cognatus', which literally means 'born together', highlighting the idea of being joined to a new family.
- In Italian, the word cognata is strictly used for marital relatives. You cannot use it to describe a biological cousin, even if the English word 'cognate' suggests a broader family connection.
Examples in context
- Ho incontrato tua cognata ieri.I met your sister-in-law yesterday.
- La mia cognata cucina molto bene.My sister-in-law cooks very well.
Example conversation
Giulia and Lorenzo are talking about a family dinner.
- GiuliaViene anche tua cognata?Is your sister-in-law coming too?
- LorenzoSì, la mia cognata arriva alle otto.Yes, my sister-in-law arrives at eight.
- GiuliaPerfetto, porterò anche un dolce.Perfect, I will also bring a dessert.
- LorenzoGrazie mille, Giulia.Thanks a lot, Giulia.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cognata, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cognata, CC BY-SA 4.0.
