A2noun2K

Twin

UK /["/twɪn/"]/US /["/twɪn/"]/

Definition

one of two children born at the same time to the same mother

In simple words: One of two children born at the same time from the same mother.

Examples

  • She's expecting twins.
  • If you're carrying *(= expecting)* twins or triplets, that can put you at risk.
  • I'm 5 months pregnant with twins.
  • His long-lost twin was searching for him.
  • I was the older twin.
  • My sister had twins.
  • The twins were separated at birth.
  • adult twins who were raised apart
  • the plot device of giving a character an evil twin
  • The plate was one of a pair but I broke its twin.

Usage notes

Use 'twin' for both identical and fraternal twins. It's a neutral term and can be used in formal and informal contexts. Avoid using it when talking about unrelated individuals.

Grammar pattern

twin + noun (e.g. twin brother/sister)

Memory hint

Think of 'twin' as a pair; a twin is one half of a matching set.

Collocations

  • identical
  • monozygotic
  • dizygotic
  • pair
  • set
  • be carrying
  • be pregnant with
  • expect
  • boys
  • girls
  • daughters

Synonyms

  • duo
  • pair
  • double

Antonyms

  • single
  • individual

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'double' when referring to twins.
  • Using 'twins' as a singular noun.
  • Assuming all twins look the same; this only applies to identical twins.