Families: meaning, definitions and examples

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families

 

[ ˈfΓ¦mΙͺliz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

group of people

Families are social units that consist of individuals connected by blood, marriage, or adoption. They typically live together and support one another emotionally and financially. Families can vary widely in structure, including nuclear families, extended families, and blended families.

Synonyms

clan, household, kin, lineage, relatives

Examples of usage

  • She comes from a large family.
  • Families often celebrate holidays together.
  • Their family values emphasize respect and love.
  • He is spending time with his family this weekend.

Word origin

The word 'family' originates from the Latin term 'familia', which referred to a household, including all persons and property under the rule of a father, hence indicating both the immediate family and servants. The term evolved through Old French into Middle English, reflecting a broadening scope to include all related individuals. Over time, 'family' has come to represent not just biological ties but also emotional bonds and social networks. In contemporary usage, it encompasses diverse structures, including single-parent families, stepfamilies, and those formed through choice or circumstance, highlighting the dynamic nature of familial relationships in modern society.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,153, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.