clan
klan
Clan (noun) means a large group of related families claiming descent from a common ancestor. Example: “Each member of the clan wore the same tartan to the gathering.”
noun
1
A large group of related families claiming descent from a common ancestor.
"Each member of the clan wore the same tartan to the gathering."
"The Scottish clan gathered for its annual reunion."
"Different clans in the region have their own tartans."
2
Informally, any close-knit group bound by loyalty, such as an extended family or team.
"Grandma's clan fills the whole garden every summer."
"Our football clan meets at the same pub after every match."
"The whole clan showed up for Christmas dinner."
How to use clan
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA group of people linked by family ties or a shared ancestor — or, loosely, any tight-knit group.
Common pairings
clan chief
clan gathering
gaming clan
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Word forms
- Plural
- clans
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Each member of the _____ wore the same tartan to the gathering.
Etymology
From Scottish Gaelic clann ("children, offspring"), ultimately from Latin planta ("shoot, offspring").
Related words
Rhymes for clan
See all rhymes for clan →Frequently asked questions
What does “clan” mean?
The word “clan” means a large group of related families claiming descent from a common ancestor. In plain terms, a group of people linked by family ties or a shared ancestor — or, loosely, any tight-knit group.
How do you pronounce “clan”?
“Clan” is pronounced klan (/klæn/ in IPA).
How do you use “clan” in a sentence?
Here is “clan” used in a sentence: “The Scottish clan gathered for its annual reunion.”
What part of speech is “clan”?
“Clan” is a noun.
Where does the word “clan” come from?
The word “clan” comes from Latin. From Scottish Gaelic clann ("children, offspring"), ultimately from Latin planta ("shoot, offspring").
Is “clan” a common word?
“Clan” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “clan” have?
“Clan” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large group of related families claiming descent from a common ancestor.
What is the difference between a clan and a tribe?
A clan is a group of related families claiming descent from a common ancestor, and clans are often subgroups within a larger tribe. A tribe is usually bigger and may contain several clans linked by shared culture, language, or territory.
What is the difference between a clan and a family?
A family is typically a small group of closely related people, such as parents and children. A clan is much larger, made up of many families who claim descent from a common ancestor, though informally 'clan' can affectionately describe a big extended family.
Where is the word 'clan' most strongly associated?
'Clan' is closely associated with Scottish and Irish history, where clans were kinship groups sharing a common ancestor and often a surname. Today the word is also used broadly for any group united by descent or loyalty.
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