familiar
UK: fəˈmɪl.i.ə | US: fəˈmɪl.jɚ
adj. well-known or easily recognized
adj. having a close or informal relationship
n. a spirit or demon often depicted as an animal companion (historical/folklore context)
The word familiar traces back to Latin familiaris, meaning "of a household." Originally, it described domestic relationships or servants within a household. Over time, it broadened to denote closeness or intimacy (e.g., "familiar friends") and later evolved into its modern sense of "well-known." The noun form, referencing supernatural companions (e.g., witches' familiars), arose in the 16th century, metaphorically extending the idea of a close attendant.
Her face looked familiar, but I couldn’t recall her name.
The professor spoke in a familiar tone, putting the students at ease.
In medieval tales, a black cat might be a witch’s familiar.
The town’s layout became familiar after a week of exploration.
Avoid overly familiar behavior with strangers in formal settings.