Son/sʌn/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Family Significance Indicates a strong family bond or legacy, often used to denote lineage. He's the fourth son to become a doctor in our family. Pro Tip 2/3Patriarchal Societies In many cultures, 'son' signifies a future family leader or breadwinner. Their eldest son will take over the family business one day. Pro Tip 3/3Generational Reference Used to specify the generational shift, especially in namesakes or 'juniors'. John Smith Jr. is the son of John Smith Sr.