sihr
son-in-law
صهر (sihr) is an Arabic noun meaning 'son-in-law'—specifically the husband of one's daughter. It is a familial term used to denote the male relative who marries into the family through marriage to a daughter. This word is commonly used in family contexts across Arabic-speaking cultures.
Worksheets, games, and lesson plans for Years 1-11
Get a new Arabic word delivered to your inbox every day — with pronunciation, meaning, and cultural context.
صهري رجل طيب وعمله مهندس.
Sihri rajul tayyib wa'amalu muhandis.
My son-in-law is a good man and he is an engineer.
استقبلنا صهرنا في المطار بفرح.
Istaqbalnā sihranā fī al-maṭār bi-farah.
We welcomed our son-in-law at the airport with joy.
كيف حال صهري وعائلته؟
Kayf ḥāl sihri wa'ā'ilaturh?
How are my son-in-law and his family?
زوجة صهري أختي، فهو صهري بالزواج.
Zawjat sihri ukhtī, fahuwa sihri bi-al-ziwāj.
My son-in-law's wife is my sister, so he is my son-in-law by marriage.
In Arab culture, the son-in-law holds a significant place in the family structure, often being integrated into extended family gatherings and celebrations. The term reflects the importance of marital relationships and family bonds in Arabic-speaking societies. Respect for in-laws, including the son-in-law, is a valued aspect of family honor and social cohesion.
Remember that صهر is specifically the husband of your daughter, not just any male relative by marriage. When speaking about your son-in-law, always use the possessive 'my' (صهري) to clarify the family relationship. Be aware that this term is formal and respectful, making it appropriate for both casual and formal family contexts.
The Arabic word صهر (pronounced 'sihr') is a fundamental family-related noun that refers to a son-in-law—specifically the husband of one's daughter. This term is essential for anyone learning Arabic and seeking to understand family relationships and dynamics in Arab cultures.
صهر (sihr) literally translates to 'son-in-law' in English. It is used to describe the male relative who enters the family through marriage to a daughter. Understanding this term is crucial because family relationships are central to Arabic language and culture, and proper terminology demonstrates respect and cultural awareness.
As a masculine noun, صهر follows standard Arabic grammatical patterns. The word can take possessive pronouns to indicate relationship: صهري (my son-in-law), صهرك (your son-in-law), صهره (his son-in-law), and so forth. In the plural form, it becomes أصهار (ashhār) or صهور (suhūr), though singular usage is more common in everyday conversation.
This word appears frequently in family conversations, formal introductions, and social gatherings. Arabs use صهر to establish family relationships and social hierarchies. For example, when introducing family members or discussing family matters, one might say: "هذا صهري" (This is my son-in-law). The term is equally applicable whether the son-in-law is newly married or has been part of the family for many years.
Understanding صهر is easier when learning it alongside other family terminology. Related words include:
In Arab societies, the son-in-law occupies an important position within the family structure. He is expected to participate in family affairs, contribute to family gatherings, and maintain respectful relationships with all family members. The integration of a son-in-law into the family is often marked by special celebrations and ceremonies. Family honor and harmony are paramount, and the son-in-law's conduct directly reflects on both his own family and his wife's family.
When using صهر in conversation, always be clear about which family member you're referring to by using possessive pronouns. Remember that this term is specifically for your daughter's husband, not for other in-laws. The word carries respect and formality, making it appropriate for all social contexts. Practice using it in sentences related to family introductions and gatherings to build familiarity.
Learners often encounter صهر in phrases like زيارة الصهر (visiting the son-in-law) or تكريم الصهر (honoring the son-in-law). These phrases are used in formal family contexts and celebrations, reflecting the cultural importance placed on maintaining family relationships.