clan
KLAN
/klæn/
A group of close-knit and interrelated families, especially one having a common ancestor.
In anthropology, a clan is a group whose members claim descent from a common ancestor, even if the exact genealogical links are lost or mythical (like an animal totem).
The story behind the word. Borrowed into English from the Scottish Gaelic clann, meaning 'offspring, children, or family.' This Gaelic word itself was borrowed from the Latin planta (sprout, shoot), which also gave us the word 'plant.' A clan is literally a collection of 'sprouts' from the same family tree.
Word relationships
- tribe: A tribe is a larger political and social unit that may contain multiple different clans.
- lineage: A lineage is a group of families who can trace their exact biological descent, whereas clan members might only believe in a shared, unproven, or mythical ancestor.
Commonly confused with
- family: A family is a small, immediate domestic unit, whereas a clan is a much larger, multi-generational collective claiming a common ancestor.
Word family
- clannish (adjective): Tending to associate only with a select group; insular.
- clanship (noun): The system of organization based on clans.
Collocations
- ruling clan
- clan leader
- rival clans
- clan loyalty
Example sentences
- "The Macdonalds were a powerful Scottish clan that ruled over vast territories in the Highlands." Describing Scottish Highland history.
- "Members of the bear clan believed they were spiritually descended from a mythical giant bear." Discussing tribal organization.
Memory hook
Think of a 'clan' as a 'clan-destine' (clandestine) meeting of families who share a secret, ancient bond. Clannish children of the same sprout.
When not to use
Avoid using to describe a modern political party or corporate department unless you are deliberately using it metaphorically to suggest extreme, hostile insularity.
Fun facts
- In many Native American and Australian Aboriginal cultures, clans are named after animal totems, and members of the same totem clan are forbidden from marrying each other because they are considered siblings.
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