families

[fam-uh-leez, fam-leez] / ˈfæm ə liz, ˈfæm liz /

NOUN

kin, offspring; classification

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clan folk group house household people tribe

STRONG

ancestors ancestry birth blood brood children class descendants descent dynasty extraction forebears genealogy generations genre in-laws inheritance issue kind kindred line lineage network parentage pedigree progenitors progeny race relations relationship relatives siblings strain subdivision system

WEAK

heirs and assigns kith and kin menage ménage

Antonyms

STRONG

parent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Washington state has embarked on a bold experiment that bolsters families by giving all workers a way to earn access to $36,500 worth of long-term care when they need it.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

He’s engaged in an unseen, often undervalued duty as a coach — providing comfort to players and their families.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

Cater said the forum had "caused unimaginable pain and suffering for bereaved families across the UK and beyond, and no punishment can undo that harm".

From BBC • May 13, 2026

In past years, Catherine has addressed themes of forging connections, the healing power of nature and acts of kindness, as well as her work with children and families.

From Barron's • May 13, 2026

It’s one of those homemaker advice columns—someone called Mrs. Bardell describes tasty and nourishing dishes women can cook for their families in only five minutes.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin