Zus

/zʊs/ noun

Definition

A Dutch/Flemish word meaning 'sister,' sometimes used as a nickname or term of endearment.

Etymology

From Middle Dutch suster, related to Proto-Germanic *swestēr and ultimately to Proto-Indo-European *swésōr meaning 'sister.' The 'z' pronunciation reflects Dutch phonetic evolution.

Kelly Says

The word 'zus' demonstrates how the same ancient root for 'sister' has evolved differently across Germanic languages - while English kept the 's' sound, Dutch developed the distinctive 'z' pronunciation.

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