What is the meaning of "kindred"?

The term "kindred" refers to a group of relatives connected by blood or marriage. In anthropological and legal contexts, this includes all relatives on both sides of a marriage, which encompasses the concept of kinship that goes beyond the immediate family.

Choosing relatives on each side of marriage captures the broader and more inclusive view of kinship. This recognizes connections not just to one's direct blood relatives, such as parents and siblings, but also includes relationships formed through marriage. This could mean in-laws or extended family members related through both parties in a marriage, emphasizing the interconnectedness of familial ties.

In contrast, the other options are more limited in scope. For instance, focusing solely on immediate family members, or relatives through marriage alone, overlooks the extensive network of relationships that constitutes kindred. Similarly, stating that it refers only to descendants from a common ancestor restricts the definition to genealogical lineage rather than the full array of familial connections that also encompass marriage ties. Thus, the correct answer effectively encompasses a comprehensive understanding of familial relationships.