genero
/ˈd͡ʒɛ.ne.ro/masculine
The Italian word for son-in-law is genero.
Meaning: son-in-law (noun)
Which one should you use?
While genero refers to a son-in-law, the term nuora is used to refer to a daughter-in-law.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of genero is generi. When referring to 'the son-in-law', it is typical to use the definite article il before the word, forming il genero.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 3 syllables and the stress is on the first syllable: /ˈdʒɛ.ne.ro/.
Did you know?
- The word genero is a homonym that also means 'gender' or 'type' in Italian. Context is the only way to tell if someone is discussing a relative or a category of things.
- In Italian, there is no single word for 'in-laws' as a group. You must refer to them individually or use the phrase parenti acquisiti, which literally means 'acquired relatives'.
- While genero describes the relationship, an Italian might simply call their son-in-law mio figlio ('my son') in casual conversation to show affection and integration into the family.
Examples in context
- Ho incontrato il tuo genero ieri.I met your son-in-law yesterday.
- Conoscerò finalmente il tuo genero.I will finally meet your son-in-law.
- Il genero di Maria è un avvocato.Maria's son-in-law is a lawyer.
Example conversation
Matteo and Chiara are talking about family plans.
- MatteoChiara, tuo genero ha confermato per sabato?Chiara, has your son-in-law confirmed for Saturday?
- ChiaraSì, Matteo, verrà con mia figlia.Yes, Matteo, he will come with my daughter.
- MatteoOttimo, sarà bello rivederlo.Great, it will be nice to see him again.
- ChiaraSono sicura che sarai felice di vederlo.I am sure you will be happy to see him.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “son-in-law” translations and entries genero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
