birth family

[burth fam-uh-lee, fam lee]

noun

1. one's biological parents and siblings, as contrasted with one's adoptive family.

Word History and Origins

Origin of birth family¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

Alistair, 62, did not actively search for his birth family but often thought about them over the years.

From BBC

Foster carers provide a home to children who cannot live with their birth family for different reasons.

From BBC

“Paddington in Peru” is still incredibly touching in its story of acceptance from both one’s found family and birth family.

From Los Angeles Times

It is a permanent break between a child and their birth family, and alters the child's identity forever.

From BBC

Most adopted children grow up without seeing or knowing any of their birth family.

From BBC