Mamiyar

Mamiyar (மாமியார்) is a term used primarily in South Indian languages, including Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, to refer to a mother-in-law. Specifically, it usually designates the mother of one's spouse. The term is gender-neutral in that it applies regardless of whether the speaker is male or female. The specific relationship being described is always the mother of the spouse, not a stepmother-in-law or other related familial connection. The term is integral to familial structures and social relationships within South Indian cultures. The use of specific kinship terms like "Mamiyar" reflects a hierarchical and relationship-oriented social framework where familial roles are clearly defined and respected.