Definition

Noun: 1. A group of people related by blood or marriage; one's relatives collectively. This word refers to the people who are connected to you through family ties, including both close and extended family.

Usage

• Kinfolk is a somewhat old-fashioned or formal word, more common in certain regional dialects (like Southern American English) than in everyday modern speech. It is often used to evoke a sense of tradition, heritage, or a close-knit family community.
• It is typically used as a collective noun (e.g., ) and is considered plural.
• Example:

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term can carry cultural or emotional weight, emphasizing shared ancestry and belonging.
  • Example: The land has been passed down through his kinfolk for over a century.

Variants and Related Words

• Kin (noun): A shorter, more modern synonym for kinfolk. (e.g., )
• Kinsfolk (noun): A direct variant with identical meaning to "kinfolk."
• Kinsman/Kinswoman (noun): Refers to an individual male or female relative.

Synonyms

• Relatives
• Family
• Kindred
• Relations
• Clan (especially when implying a large, traditional family group)

Antonyms

• Strangers
• Non-relatives

Idioms and Phrases

• Kith and kin: An old phrase meaning "friends and family." While "kin" means family, "kith" refers to friends or acquaintances. The phrase is often used to mean one's wider social circle or community.
  • Example: He was well-known and respected by all his kith and kin.

Noun

1. people descended from a common ancestor
   • his family has lived in Massachusetts since the Mayflower