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

“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

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

She’s made spending time with her family circle a priority, and lived with her mom in Chicago during the pandemic and until her final days.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 29, 2022

Kenny Donaldson, director of services for the South East Fermanagh Foundation, which supports victims and survivors of paramilitary violence, told BBC News NI outside of the family circle, baby Alan's death had been largely forgotten.

From BBC • Jul. 19, 2022

“But, my dear, pray do not make any more matches; they are silly things, and break up one’s family circle grievously.”

From "Emma" by Jane Austen