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.

---

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

---

Etymology

Origin of family circle

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

“She would write in the day and then read aloud in the family circle at night, which they all did.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2025

They’re going to take place in the family circle, which is evident when the paterfamilias starts listing the order of his favorite sons while they’re chowing down at the breakfast table.

From New York Times • Dec. 21, 2023

"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

After Lawrence brought his bride, Molly, to Berkeley, Oppenheimer remained an intimate part of the family circle.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik