Familial: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or medical contexts to describe things related to the family, especially when discussing genetic or hereditary factors.

• Her condition is likely familial, as many of her relatives have the same illness

Used in everyday conversation to refer to one's immediate or extended relatives, or as a general term for people who are related by blood, marriage, or close emotional bonds.

• We are having a family reunion next weekend

Used to describe a connection by blood, marriage, or official ties; can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• I'm related to her on my mother's side of the family

Used in formal or historical contexts to refer to one's relatives by blood. It often carries an old-fashioned or rural connotation.

• After his death, his only living kin inherited the property

Use when referring to traits, traditions, or practices related to family. It often highlights the inherited or shared aspects of family life.

• She has a familial eye color that matches her mother's.
• The familial holiday traditions are very important to them.

Use when describing relationships or groups that, while not by blood, resemble the nurturing, supportive, and close relationships typically found in a family.

• The office culture is very family-like, with everyone caring for one another.
• They have a family-like bond, always supporting each other.

Use when referring to a group of people, usually a family or a community, that is very supportive and unified. It often implies regular interaction and a high level of mutual support.

• They grew up in a close-knit community where everyone knew each other.
• Her close-knit family always celebrated birthdays together.

Use when describing strong emotional connections between people that are akin to those of family. It emphasizes the strength and depth of the relationship.

• The friends felt deeply bonded after their long journey together.
• The team became bonded through many shared victories and defeats.