You may have come across the word kith in phrases like “kith and kin” and wondered what it actually means. It’s not a word most people use daily, which makes the kith meaning confusing for many readers.
In this updated-for-2026 guide, we’ll break down what kith means, where it comes from, how it’s used in modern English, and why it still matters today—using clear, simple language.
What Does “Kith” Mean?
Kith means friends, acquaintances, neighbors, or people you know socially, especially those connected by community rather than family.
In simple terms:
Kith = people you know or associate with
Kin = family or relatives
That’s why the two words are often paired together.
Origin of the Word “Kith”
Comes from Old English “cythth”, meaning knowledge, acquaintance, or known people.
Related to the verb “to know” or “make known.”
Historically referred to people someone was familiar with or connected to in daily life.
Over time, the word became less common on its own but survived in set phrases.
How “Kith” Is Used Today
In Modern English
Most people encounter kith almost exclusively in the phrase:
“Kith and kin”
This phrase means:
All the people connected to you—both friends and family
In Writing or Formal Contexts
Literature
Historical writing
Formal or poetic language
Example:
“She left her homeland, saying goodbye to all her kith and kin.”
“Kith and Kin” Explained Clearly
This common phrase combines two ideas:
Kith: Friends, neighbors, community
Kin: Family, blood relatives
Together, it means everyone close to you socially and personally.
Important:
Kith does not mean family on its own—it specifically refers to non-family social connections.
Real-Life Examples of “Kith”
Example 1:
Sentence: “He invited all his kith and kin to the celebration.”
Meaning: Friends and family were invited.
Example 2:
Sentence: “She felt homesick, missing her kith back home.”
Meaning: She missed the people she knew and interacted with regularly.
Example 3:
Sentence: “The village relied on strong bonds among kith and neighbors.”
Meaning: Community relationships were important.
Common Mistakes and Misunderstandings
Thinking kith means family: It does not—kin means family.
Using kith alone in casual speech: Sounds old-fashioned in modern conversation.
Assuming it’s slang: Kith is a traditional English word, not internet slang.
Tip: Use “kith” mainly in writing or as part of “kith and kin.”
Related Words and Phrases
Kin: Family members
Community: People living or working together
Acquaintances: People you know but aren’t close to
Social circle: Group of friends and contacts
Folk: Informal term for people
Internal Linking Opportunity: Could link to articles like kin meaning, community meaning, or folk meaning.
Why Understanding “Kith” Still Matters
Even though kith isn’t common in everyday speech, it’s still widely used in:
Books and literature
Legal or formal writing
Cultural expressions
Classic phrases
Knowing the kith meaning helps you understand older texts and polished writing more clearly.
FAQs
What does kith mean?
Kith means friends, acquaintances, or people you know socially, not family members.
What does “kith and kin” mean?
It means friends and family together, referring to everyone close to a person.
Is kith still used today?
Yes, but mostly in the phrase “kith and kin” or in formal or literary contexts.
Is kith the same as kin?
No. Kith refers to social connections, while kin refers to family or relatives.
Is kith a slang word?
No. It’s a traditional English word with Old English origins.
Conclusion
The kith meaning refers to friends, acquaintances, and people you know socially, especially those connected through community rather than family. While it’s most often seen in the phrase “kith and kin,” it remains a useful word for understanding English history and expression.