holy family: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Religious
Quick answer
What does “holy family” mean?
A proper noun referring to the Christian family unit of Jesus, his mother Mary, and his foster father Joseph.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A proper noun referring to the Christian family unit of Jesus, his mother Mary, and his foster father Joseph.
The term can also refer to artistic depictions of these three figures, or to institutions (e.g., schools, churches) named in their honor. In a non-religious context, it may be used very occasionally to denote any exceptionally virtuous or closely-knit family.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling of related terms may differ (e.g., 'honour' vs 'honor' in institutional names).
Connotations
Identical strong religious and cultural connotations in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency outside of religious discourse in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “holy family” in a Sentence
[The] Holy Family + [verb: is venerated/depicted/shown]The [Feast/Church/School] of the Holy FamilyVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “holy family” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- They attended a Holy Family service at the cathedral.
American English
- She enrolled her children in Holy Family School.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in theological studies, art history, and religious studies.
Everyday
Used by religious individuals, particularly around Christmas or relevant feast days.
Technical
A precise term in Christian theology and iconography.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “holy family”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “holy family”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “holy family”
- Writing it in lowercase ('holy family').
- Using it as a common noun to describe any religious family.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, because it is a proper noun referring to specific, sacred individuals.
No, it is not standard usage. The term is a fixed title for Jesus, Mary, and Joseph only.
No significant differences in meaning, usage, or pronunciation. The only potential differences are in the spelling of associated common words (e.g., 'honour/honor').
It functions primarily as a proper noun or a noun phrase used attributively (e.g., Holy Family Church). It is not used as a verb or adverb.
A proper noun referring to the Christian family unit of Jesus, his mother Mary, and his foster father Joseph.
Holy family is usually formal, religious in register.
Holy family: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhəʊli ˈfæm(ə)li/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhoʊli ˈfæm(ə)li/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None directly; the term itself is a fixed reference.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a classic nativity scene with three central figures: the baby, the mother, and the father—that's the Holy Family.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE IDEAL/FOUNDATIONAL FAMILY (used as a model for Christian family life).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'Holy Family' primarily used?