Definition
Affinal describes relationships established through marriage, not blood. It signifies a connection created by law or marital ties rather than genetics. Think of in-laws: your spouse's parents, siblings, etc. These are affinal relatives. Unlike consanguineal (blood) relatives, affinal kin are connected through the bond of marriage. π Therefore, your sister-in-law is an example of an affinal relationship. Affinal ties create new family bonds, expanding the circle beyond bloodlines.