familiar meaning and definition

FAMILIAR noun

Definition of familiar (noun)

1. a person attached to the household of a high official (as a pope or bishop) who renders service in return for support
2. a friend who is frequently in the company of another
   • "drinking companions"; "comrades in arms"
   • synonyms: associate, companion, comrade, fellow
3. a spirit (usually in animal form) that acts as an assistant to a witch or wizard
   • synonyms: familiar spirit

FAMILIAR adjective

Definition of familiar (adjective)

1. well known or easily recognized
   • "a familiar figure"; "familiar songs"; "familiar guests"
   • antonym: unfamiliar
2. within normal everyday experience; common and ordinary; not strange
   • "familiar ordinary objects found in every home"; "a familiar everyday scene"; "a familiar excuse"; "a day like any other filled with familiar duties and experiences"
   • antonym: strange
3. (usually followed by `with') well informed about or knowing thoroughly
   • "conversant with business trends"; "familiar with the complex machinery"; "he was familiar with those roads"
   • synonyms: conversant
4. having mutual interests or affections; of established friendship
   • "on familiar terms"; "pretending she is on an intimate footing with those she slanders"
   • synonyms: intimate