The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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familiar

adjective

/fəˈmɪl yər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of familiar

Well-known, recognized, or acquainted.
"She had a familiar feeling of déjà vu as she walked through the old neighborhood."

Detailed meaning of familiar

It suggests a sense of knowledge, awareness, or understanding that arises from previous encounters, experiences, or interactions. When something is familiar, it is easily recognized or understood due to prior exposure or familiarity with its characteristics, qualities, or features. It can refer to places, people, objects, or concepts that one has encountered or become accustomed to over time. Familiarity often implies a level of comfort, ease, or closeness with the subject, fostering a sense of familiarity. Additionally, the term "familiar" can also describe a sense of being well-acquainted or friendly with someone, suggesting a close or intimate relationship. Overall, the adjective "familiar" conveys a sense of recognition, knowledge, or intimacy with something or someone based on prior experience or familiarity.

Example sentences containing familiar

1. The scent of freshly baked cookies was familiar and comforting.
2. The song playing on the radio sounded familiar, reminding her of a memorable moment.
3. The familiar voice on the phone instantly brought a smile to her face.
4. The restaurant had a familiar atmosphere that made her feel right at home.
5. The book's plot had a familiar theme of love and redemption.
6. The child clung to their familiar stuffed animal for comfort.

History and etymology of familiar

The adjective 'familiar' has a rich etymology, drawing from Latin and Old French influences. It comes from the Latin word 'familiaris,' which is derived from 'familia,' meaning 'family' or 'household.' Originally, 'familiaris' referred to something that was a part of one's household or close circle, hence the connection to the concept of being well-known or acquainted. In Old French, 'familiar' further developed the sense of being on friendly or intimate terms with someone. Over time, this word found its way into Middle English and retained its core meaning of being well-known, recognized, or acquainted. The etymology of 'familiar' reflects its historical link to the idea of being part of one's family or inner circle, which has evolved into its modern sense of being acquainted or well-known to a person.

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Further usage examples of familiar

1. The actor's face was instantly familiar, having appeared in numerous movies and TV shows.
2. The street signs and landmarks were familiar, guiding her way through the city.
3. The familiar taste of her grandmother's cooking brought back cherished memories.
4. The teacher's familiar voice commanded the attention of the students.
5. The feeling of sand between her toes was familiar, reminding her of childhood summers at the beach.
6. The familiar scent of freshly baked bread filled the air.
7. His face looked strangely familiar, but she couldn't place it.
8. She felt a sense of comfort in the familiar surroundings.
9. The familiar melody brought back cherished memories.
10. The book's cover had a familiar design from her childhood.
11. Their laughter was a familiar sound in the old neighborhood.
12. The menu offered a mix of both familiar and exotic dishes.
13. He wore a familiar smile that brightened her day.
14. The movie had a familiar plot, but with a unique twist.
15. His voice had a warm, familiar tone that reassured her.
16. The park was a familiar place for weekend picnics.
17. She recognized the familiar landmarks as she drove home.
18. The familiar rhythm of the rain was soothing.
19. The painting depicted a familiar scene from their hometown.
20. Her handwriting was instantly familiar to those who knew her.
21. The old book had a familiar title that piqued his interest.
22. The face in the photograph looked eerily familiar.
23. His jokes had a familiar, timeless quality that amused everyone.
24. The museum displayed a collection of familiar artifacts.
25. The professor's lecture covered familiar topics in depth.