A son is a male child in relation to his parents. It can also be used more loosely for someone treated like a male child by another person or group.
From Old English *sunu*, related to German *Sohn* and Sanskrit *sunu*, all meaning “son.” It’s an ancient word that goes back to the Proto-Indo-European root *suHnús*.
The word *son* is so old that distant languages from Europe to India have recognizably similar versions. That shows how central family relationships have been to humans for thousands of years.
“Son” has been central in patrilineal inheritance systems and son preference, where male children were valued more for carrying family names and property. In many cultures, language around sons has been more celebratory or future-oriented than language around daughters, reflecting gendered expectations.
Use “son” strictly for self-identified male children; avoid using it generically for all children or as a term of address for unrelated younger men, which can be patronizing. In general statements, prefer gender-neutral terms like “child” or “kid” unless gender is relevant.
["child","kid","offspring"]
When discussing family structures, acknowledge how women and daughters have contributed economically and socially even where language and law privileged sons.
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