extended family

[ik-sten-did fam-uh-lee, fam lee] / ɪkˈstɛn dɪd ˈfæm ə li, ˈfæm li /

NOUN

parents, children, and relatives

Synonyms

STRONGEST

nuclear family

WEAK

binuclear family kinship group menage ménage relations

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.

They’re also at times footing the bill for their extended family.

From Barron's • May 27, 2026

She also recommended creating a caregiving plan early, involving siblings or extended family when possible, and protecting time for the marriage itself.

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

Living in a “compound household” with extended family felt “oppressive” to him, and he felt more at home in New York City, his son recounts.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

As Giovanni’s mental state became less stable in recent years, Frank Perez said he and their extended family tried many avenues to get his son and grandson more help.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 24, 2026

Papa-Nnukwu had called an umunna meeting to complain to the extended family that he did not know his grandchildren and that we did not know him.

From "Purple Hibiscus" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie