Definition

A girl or woman who is the daughter of one's spouse from a previous relationship.

Example

She welcomed her stepdaughter into the family with open arms.

Conversation

How is your stepdaughter adjusting to the new school?

She's doing pretty well, actually. It's been a big change for her.

I can imagine. It must be tough for a stepdaughter to fit in at first.

Yeah, but she's making friends, so that's a relief!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stepdaughter is formed from "step-" (from Old English "stæppa", meaning a person who is a step or substitute) and "daughter" (from Old English "dohtor", meaning a female child). The word refers to a daughter who is not biologically one's own but is the child of a spouse from a previous relationship.

Memory Tip

Think of 'step' as a substitute or addition to the family, and 'daughter' as a female child — a stepdaughter is a daughter who comes into the family through marriage, not by birth.

Visually Confused Words