family

noun | \ ˈfam-lē, ˈfa-mə- \ | fam·i·ly

1. : a group of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption

2. : a group of usually related individuals who live together under common household authority and especially who have reciprocal duties to each other

   Note: The interpretation of the word family in a law context depends upon the area of the law concerned (as contract or zoning law), the purpose of the document (as a statute or contract) in which it is used, and the facts of the case. Often for zoning purposes, the occupants of a group home are considered a family if the organization is like that of a family or if the home is going to be a permanent rather than a transitional residence for the occupants.