noun
clan
klan
noun
1
A large group of related families claiming descent from a common ancestor.
"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.
"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
Word Forms
clans plural
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The Scottish _____ gathered for its annual reunion.
Etymology
From Scottish Gaelic clann ("children, offspring"), ultimately from Latin planta ("shoot, offspring").