Word: Family

Pronunciation

/ˈfæməli/

Definitions

• Noun: A group of people who are related by blood, marriage, adoption, or who live together as a household. For example: “We had a big family reunion last summer.”

  • Also refers to all the descendants of a common ancestor; a lineage or clan. Example: “The royal family has ruled this country for centuries.”
  • In a broader sense, it can also refer to a group of people closely associated for any reason, like a work family, school family, or church family.

• Adjective: Relating to or characteristic of a family. Example: “Family values are important to us.”

• Noun (figurative): A group of things that are related or belong together, e.g., “The dog breed belongs to the terrier family.”

Phrases

• “Family tree”: A diagram showing the relationships among members of a family over several generations.
• “Family bond”: Strong emotional ties between family members.
• “Family matters”: Issues or concerns related to one’s family life.
• “Blended family”: A family formed when two people with children from previous relationships marry.

Example Sentences

• Noun (relatives): “I come from a large, close-knit family.”
• Adjective: “This restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere.”
• Noun (group of related things): “Dolphins belong to the cetacean family.”

Synonyms

• Kin
• Relatives
• Ancestry
• Lineage
• Clan
• Households
• Folks
• Brethren (in the context of a group sharing similar characteristics)