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.

On Wednesday in La Paz, thousands of Bolivians queued for hours to buy chicken, a stark sign of how much families are struggling with shortages that have been worsened by protests.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

Their families all paid tribute, while the military described them as "deeply capable and professional aviators" and "cherished members" of the Commando Helicopter Force.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Low-income families and seniors on fixed incomes already struggle to afford their bills and air conditioning is a must, she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

It is a wonderful concept, a place where families can find affordable souvenirs without limiting the kids to a clearance rack.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

Nearly seventy thousand were American citizens; many were from families who had lived in the United States for several generations.

From "At Last She Stood" by Erin Entrada Kelly