This paper focuses on providing an overview of the theory surrounding kinship terminology. Due to a lack of space, the focus is placed on providing an overview of a number of selected contemporary kinship research. Its goal is to familiarize the reader with the research history and the complex processes that shaped the study itself. It does so by providing the reader with an insight into the early research of kinship, as well as gradually discussing the developments which led towards its contemporary form. In an attempt to present these issues with clarity, the paper has been divided into a number of sections. The introduction offers the essential knowledge on kinship study and its beginnings, with a focus on explaining the historically dominant paradigm. The following part focuses mostly on the important work of David M. Schneider and his contemporaries in what later became known as the time when kinship study underwent profound changes. This part also acts as an introduction to the more recent research, with an emphasis on the role of gender study in defining kinship. Lastly, the final part of the paper focuses on explaining the results of the recent research and its meaning for the future of kinship studies.