Portuguese · Family & People
Família
[/faˈmilʲɐ/]
Family
Definition
A group of people related by blood, marriage, or adoption.
Grupo de pessoas unidas por laços de parentesco.
Example
A minha família se reúne todo domingo.
My family gets together every Sunday.
Etymology
The word 'família' comes from the Latin 'familia', which originally referred to a household and the servants who lived in it, derived from 'famulus' meaning 'servant'. Its meaning has evolved to denote a group of related individuals, particularly in the context of kinship.
How & Where It’s Used
'Família' is commonly used in both spoken and written Portuguese, in formal and informal contexts. It describes biological relations as well as chosen familial bonds, with variations across Portuguese-speaking regions.
Literary Heritage
The concept of family has been explored in countless literary works, including the famous children's book 'O Meu Pé de Laranja Lima' by José Mauro de Vasconcelos, where family dynamics are central to the narrative.
Cultural Note
Family gatherings are highly valued in Brazilian and Portuguese culture.