Family
/ˈfæmɪli/
Definitions
- (n.) A group consisting of two or more persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption living together.
The family gathered for the holiday dinner.
- (n.) All the descendants of a common ancestor; a lineage or clan.
They traced their family back to the 18th century.
- (n.) A social unit consisting of parents and their children.
The nuclear family is a common household structure.
Forms
- families
Related terms
See also
Commentary
In legal drafting, "family" often varies in scope depending on jurisdiction—definitions should specify included relations to avoid ambiguity.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.