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

"My deepest condolences are with the entire family circle as well as many friends, the school family and wider community who are firmly in my thoughts and prayers."

From BBC • Feb. 3, 2026

“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

The safeguarding board said it welcomed the outcome of the criminal proceedings and the justice it has provided for Roman and Morgana and their mothers, and it offered its condolences to the wider family circle.

From BBC • Mar. 9, 2024

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

“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