Sister Definition Sister Definition 1

Sister (noun) — a female relative who shares one or both parents with you, part of your immediate family, either older or younger, connected by blood or adoption, often a close companion and lifelong friend.

Part of speech:
Noun (countable)
Phonetic transcription (IPA):
/ˈsɪs.tɚ/
CEFR level:
A1
Word frequency:

How to Pronounce “Sister”?

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Tips for “sister” pronunciation: 

Say SIS-ter with two syllables. Stress the first syllable SIS, then add ter. The s sounds like a z in casual speech.

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How to Use “Sister” in a Sentence?

To learn more about the “sister” definition take a look at how native speakers use this word in everyday contexts to describe different details of their lives and share certain details.

My older sister helped me with my math homework last night.
She has two sisters and one brother, so her house is always noisy.
I’m going shopping with my sister this weekend to buy birthday presents.
His little sister is only five years old and just started kindergarten.
My sister and I share a bedroom because our apartment is small.

What Are Synonyms for the Word “Sister”?

There aren’t lots of “sister” synonyms, but you can still take a look at some of the related words to expand your “family” vocabulary and make your English more fluent.

Related nouns: sibling family member relative

Synonyms (contextual): sis

Common collocations: older sister younger sister friendly sister

“Sister” Word Formation and Description in Context

Learn how to create meaningful collocations with this word using verbs, adjectives and nouns to understand how these grammatical units work and what information you can share.

With adjectives: angry sister little sister twin sister adopted sister

With verbs: have a sister visit your sister call a sister miss your sister

With nouns (noun + noun): sister relationship sister bond sister secret soul sister

Idioms and Interesting Phrases with “Sister”

The meaning of “sister” is quite understandable, so we invite you to discover what other points you can share while using this word in different idiomatic contexts. Look at these phrases and read the examples of correct usage.

  • Big sister — an older female sibling; used for a mentor or someone who guides younger people.

    Jenny is like a big sister to me, always giving advice and helping when I need it.
  • Sisterhood — the bond between women supporting each other, showing female solidarity and friendship.

    The women in our community have a strong sisterhood, always helping each other through difficulties.
Sister Idioma Sister Idioma 1
  • Like brother and sister — very close friends who treat each other like siblings.

    We’ve known each other since childhood — we’re like brother and sister.
  • Sister act — when sisters collaborate or perform together.

    Sarah and Sue opened a bakery together. It’s a real sister act.
  • Soul sister — a very close female friend who feels like a sister and someone who understands you deeply.

    We’re not related by blood, but she’s my soul sister! We understand each other perfectly.

Test Your Knowledge of “Sister” Meaning

Check your understanding of the “sister” definition with this quick quiz. Read every task carefully and provide correct answers to apply your knowledge in practice.

Type 1: True/false statements:
Choose the correct answer:
1
A sister is a female sibling who shares one or both parents with you.
2
“Soul sister” means your actual biological sister.
3
An older sister can also be called a “big sister.”
Type 2: Right word order:
Put these chaotic words in order:
1
older
My
university
sister
attends
2
two
has
She
younger
sisters
3
with
playing
is
sister
My
friends
her
Type 3: Choose the correct option
Select the one closest in meaning:
1
Your friend calls someone her “soul sister.” What does this mean?
2
What is a “big sister”?
3
If two friends are “like brother and sister,” their relationship is:

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“Sister” Word in Other Languages

Learn how to spell “sister” and pronounce it correctly in other popular languages to broaden your linguistic horizons.

Language Word for “Sister”
Flag Spanish Spanish   Hermana
Flag French French   Sœur
Flag German German   Schwester

Did You Know It? Fun Facts About “Sister”

Sister relationships are more complex and influential than many people realize — these interesting details reveal their unique importance in human development!

  • Sisters influence each other’s personalities significantly.

    Sisters as siblings usually become more communicative and emotionally intelligent than only children because they share, compromise and engage in dispute resolution throughout early childhood.
  • Older sisters often act as second mothers.

    Research indicates that firstborn girls frequently develop the characteristics of being more responsible, nurturing and organized, whereas their younger siblings are more likely to be more rebellious and imaginative, influenced by these distinct family positions.
  • Having sisters reduces depression risk.

    Several studies have shown that individuals having sisters report less depression and better mental health. Sisters are a source of receiving emotional support, persuading to express feelings and being the voice of reason in hard times.
  • Twin sisters share extraordinary bonds.

    Identical twins are very similar at the DNA level and often develop their own languages, mirror behaviors and report feeling each other’s pain or emotions even when separated. Scientists reveal the complex interplay between genetics and environment in shaping personality.

Famous Quotes Featuring “Sister”

See what different people say about “sisters,” and the life influence they provide by being a part of families.

“A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life.”

— Isadora James

Explanation: Besides the fact that they are blood relatives, sisters are the ones who provide friendship, support and a deeper understanding of life’s purpose, which makes them invaluable companions throughout life, from childhood to old age.

“Sister is probably the most competitive relationship within the family, but once the sisters are grown, it becomes the strongest relationship.”

Margaret Mead

Explanation: The statement describes the process of childhood rivalry that slowly evolves into a sincere friendship and understanding, as the bond is strengthened through shared past experiences and mutual support over the years.

“An older sister is a friend and defender – a listener, conspirator, a counsellor and a sharer of delights. And sorrows too.”

— Pam Brown

Explanation: Brown points out the numerous aspects of an elder sister’s life and sheds light on emotional support, guarding and friendship throughout both happy and tough times.