next of kin

noun

1. a person's nearest relative or relatives.

   The newspaper did not publish the names of casualties until the next of kin had been notified.

2. Law.,  the nearest relative or relatives who share in the estate of a person who dies intestate.

next of kin

noun

1. a person's closest relative or relatives

Word History and Origins

Origin of next of kin¹

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

With that in mind, you can file a “demand letter” from the landlord’s attorney requesting inventory records, disposal records, any notices allegedly sent, and records of attempts to reach next of kin.

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The identity of the victim has not been released because the County of Los Angeles Medical Examiner is notifying the man’s next of kin, police said.

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Typically, when someone dies, their next of kin or their estate administrator or executor contacts their financial institution and provides the deceased person’s name and Social Security number, along with a death certificate.

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The identity of the Marine is being withheld until 24 hours after his next of kin has been notified.

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The children's next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers, the force said.

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