family circle

American  

noun

1. the closely related members of a family as a group.

2. a section in a theater containing less expensive seats, as the topmost gallery.

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family circle British  

noun

1. members of a family regarded as a closed group

2. the cheap seating area in a theatre behind or above the dress circle

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Etymology

Origin of family circle

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

Frankel’s funny, heart-wrenching and thought-provoking account of how one woman’s choices can enrich the lives of others will remind you that every family circle is potentially infinite.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 23, 2024

"This evening we gather to send a message of love and support to his parents and the whole family circle of Brownes and Collins," Fr Fraser added.

From BBC • Sep. 6, 2023

"There is nothing this court can say or do which can reduce the undoubted pain and suffering of her parents, brother and sister and wider family circle," he said.

From BBC • Jun. 23, 2023

And, within the logic of Matisse’s art at that moment, he absolutely needed to base his nude on Marguerite, rather than on some model brought in from outside the family circle.

From New York Times • Aug. 26, 2022

Later everyone washed their hands and sat on floor cushions in the big family circle as platters of steaming food traveled around.

From "Habibi" by Naomi Shihab Nye