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Clan: meaning, definitions and examples

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clan

 

[klæn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

family

A group of people with a strong common interest, usually related either by blood or marriage.

Synonyms

family, kin, lineage, tribe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clan

Use when referring to a group of families with a common ancestor, often within Scottish or Irish contexts, or in contexts related to social or gaming groups.

  • The MacGregor clan is one of the most famous in Scotland
  • Our gaming clan meets online every Friday night
family

Commonly used when referring to a group of related individuals, such as parents and children. It can also refer to individuals connected by close ties or relationships, not necessarily blood-related.

  • The Johnson family had a reunion last summer
  • Our work team feels like a family
tribe

Appropriate when referring to indigenous or tribal groups, particularly in cultural, anthropological, or historical contexts. Be cautious as it can sometimes be seen as disrespectful if used incorrectly.

  • The Maasai tribe is well-known for its unique traditions
  • She is a member of the Cherokee tribe
kin

Typically used in a more formal or historical context to describe relatives or people associated by blood. Sometimes it implies a sense of obligation or heritage.

  • She sought her kin to tell them the news
  • According to his kin, John came from a long line of farmers
lineage

Often used in formal or scholarly contexts to discuss a person's ancestry or heritage. It can refer to a direct line of descent from an ancestor.

  • He traced his lineage back to the early settlers of the region
  • The lineage of the royal family is well-documented

Examples of usage

  • The Smith clan gathers every year for a reunion.
  • Our clan has a tradition of storytelling around the campfire.
  • She comes from a proud clan of warriors.
  • He is the leader of the local motorcycle clan.
  • The clan's history dates back centuries.
Context #2 | Noun

online gaming

A group of players who regularly play together in a multiplayer online game, often forming a close-knit community.

Synonyms

alliance, guild, squad, team.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clan

Use 'clan' when talking about family-like groups with a common heritage or strong ties, often associated with historical or cultural backgrounds.

  • He comes from a powerful clan of warriors.
  • The Highland clans have a rich tradition of storytelling.
guild

'Guild' is appropriate for referring to an organized group of people with shared interests or profession, often historical or in online gaming communities.

  • He joined the blacksmiths' guild to learn more about metalwork.
  • Our guild completed the raid together last night.
team

Use 'team' for any group of people working together towards a common goal, in various fields like sports, work, or projects. It is the most general term.

  • Our team won the championship this year.
  • The marketing team is responsible for the new campaign.
squad

Best used to describe a small group of people working together, often in military, sports, or informal settings.

  • The squad moved through the forest cautiously.
  • She joined a fitness squad to stay active.
alliance

This word is best used when referring to a formal agreement or partnership between groups, countries, or organizations for mutual benefit.

  • Several countries formed an alliance to combat climate change.
  • The alliance between those two companies helped them dominate the market.

Examples of usage

  • Our clan defeated the rivals in the latest tournament.
  • The clan is recruiting new members for competitive play.
  • He spends hours each day gaming with his clanmates.
  • The clan chat is always active with strategy discussions.
  • In-game rewards are shared among clan members.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'clan' comes from the Gaelic word 'clann,' which means 'children' or 'offspring.'
  • Originally, clans were kinship-based groups in Scotland and Ireland that played a crucial role in social organization.

History

  • Clans were essential in forming ancient Scottish culture, with each clan having its own chief and unique tartan patterns.
  • During the Scottish Highland Clearances in the 18th and 19th centuries, many clans were displaced, leading to significant cultural upheaval.

Cultural Significance

  • In many Indigenous cultures around the world, clans often represent distinct social groups that uphold traditions and share responsibilities.
  • Some cultures celebrate clan gatherings as important social events to strengthen community bonds and heritage.

Psychology

  • Belonging to a clan can fulfill a basic human need for community and social support, enhancing individual well-being.
  • Individuals often find identity and purpose within their clans, which can lead to a strong sense of loyalty and belonging.

Literature

  • Clans are commonly featured in literature, exemplifying themes of loyalty, conflict, and family ties, as seen in works like 'Outlander' by Diana Gabaldon.
  • Many fantasy novels depict clans as essential social structures, influencing character motivations and plot development.

Translations

Translations of the word "clan" in other languages:

🇵🇹 clã

🇮🇳 कबीला

🇩🇪 Clan

🇮🇩 klan

🇺🇦 клан

🇵🇱 klan

🇯🇵 氏族 (しぞく)

🇫🇷 clan

🇪🇸 clan

🇹🇷 klan

🇰🇷 씨족 (ssijok)

🇸🇦 عشيرة

🇨🇿 klan

🇸🇰 klan

🇨🇳 氏族 (shìzú)

🇸🇮 klan

🇮🇸 klani

🇰🇿 ру

🇬🇪 კლანი

🇦🇿 klan

🇲🇽 clan

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,364 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.