nonfamily
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /nɒnˈfæmɪli/
KK: /nɑnˈfæmɪli/
adjective
Definition
Not belonging to or related by blood or marriage to a particular family.
Example
She felt like a nonfamily member at the reunion.
Conversation
I invited some nonfamily friends to the party this weekend.
That sounds fun! Who's coming?
Just a few buddies from work and college.
Nice! It's always great to spend time with nonfamily people.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
external
alien
strange
Antonyms
familial
related
kin
noun
Definition
A group of people who are not related by blood or marriage, often living together or having a close relationship.
Example
In the community, many nonfamily members joined the celebration.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how important nonfamily relationships are?
Definitely! They can provide support in ways our families sometimes can't.
Right? I feel like my nonfamily friends know me just as well as my relatives do.
Root Explanation
Nonfamily → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "family" (from Latin "familia", meaning household or family). The word "nonfamily" refers to something that is not part of a family or household.
Memory Tip
Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'family' referring to a household — so 'nonfamily' means not part of a household.
Visually Confused Words
family