blood relationship
Second cousin
Second cousin
Definition
A second cousin is someone with whom you share great-grandparents, but not grandparents. Example: your mom’s cousin’s child is your second cousin.
How the relationship works
Both people are three generations from the shared great-grandparent. Degree = min(3, 3) − 1 = 2.
Example path
Second cousin
Path: You → Mother → Cousin → Daughter
Cousin degree equals min(3, 3) − 1 = 2. Removal equals |3 − 3| = 0. Person A is 3 generations from the shared ancestor; person B is 3 generations away. Along this path, you are 3 generations from the shared ancestor (great-grandparent), and the other person is 3 generations from that ancestor.
Frequently confused with
- First cousin once removed
FAQ
Is my mom’s cousin’s daughter my first cousin once removed?
No. Your mom’s cousin is your first cousin once removed; their child is your second cousin.