Kin: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is more formal and often used in legal or historical contexts. It refers to blood relatives and can imply a broader family network.

• In old times, people relied on their kin for protection and social support.
• The property was passed down through his kin.

Use this word to refer to the people you are closely related to, including parents, siblings, spouse, and children. It conveys a sense of emotional closeness and immediate relationship.

• I love spending time with my family during the holidays.
• Family support has been crucial for my success.

A general term for people you are related to, not necessarily implying emotional closeness. It is neutral and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

• We invited all our relatives to the wedding.
• I have relatives living in different parts of the country.

This word is informal and often used in rural or Southern American contexts. It refers to relatives in general, usually in a nostalgic or warm tone.

• Every summer, we visit our kinfolk in the countryside.
• My kinfolk have gathered for a big reunion.

A more formal term for relatives or family members. It can refer to immediate family or extended family, and sometimes even people with a shared connection or belief.

• After her parents passed away, she found support among her kin.
• He is kin to the famous poet, sharing the same great-great-grandfather.

Refers to a large group of people who are related by blood, typically within a traditional society or context. Often used in relation to Scottish and Irish culture.

• The whole clan gathered for the annual family reunion.
• In Scottish history, the MacDonalds were a powerful clan.

Refers to a social group existing before the development of—or outside of—states, generally associated with indigenous or ethnic communities. It can also be used more informally to describe groups with common interests.

• The tribe has maintained its traditional ways of living for centuries.
• She found her tribe of book lovers at the local library.

Pertains to ancestry or the line of descendants from a common ancestor. Often used in discussions about heritage, family history, or genealogy.

• She traced her lineage back to the Mayflower settlers.
• The royal family prides itself on its ancient lineage.

Typically used in legal or formal contexts to refer to family members, usually those related by blood. It often implies a close blood relationship.

• In the event of an emergency, please notify my next of kin.
• He cared deeply for his kin.

Appropriate in both formal and informal settings. Refers to people who are related by blood or marriage, usually extending beyond the immediate family.

• I met some distant relatives at the family reunion.
• She has relatives all over the country.

Used in both formal and informal settings to refer to people related by blood, marriage, or close emotional ties. It can encompass immediate family members, as well as extended relatives.

• I am spending the holidays with my family.
• Family comes first for me.

A casual and informal term, often used to refer to one’s parents or family members in a warm, affectionate way.

• How are your folks doing?
• I'm going to visit my folks this weekend.