close-knit

adjective

ˈklōs-ˈnit 

: bound together by intimate social or cultural ties or by close economic or political ties

close-knit families

Synonyms of close-knit

• friendly
• clannish
• cliquish
• familiar
• cliquey
• close
• intimate

Examples of close-knit in a Sentence

a close-knit family that constantly keeps in touch

Recent Examples on the Web

Her family was, and is, close-knit. — Andre Mouchard, Daily News, 9 May 2026

The entire team is in shock, and the community is close-knit. — Deanna Marie Lowe, CBS News, 15 June 2026

The family is close-knit, intrusive, rude and menacing. — Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 31 Mar. 2026

Local neighborhoods are so close-knit that everyone knows each other, said Allison Buell, a teacher and coach in Hammond. — Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for close-knit

• candlelit
• counterfeit
• hypocrite
• resubmit
• retrofit
• acquit
• admit
• armpit
• backlit
• befit
• cockpit
• commit

Kids Definition

close-knit

adjective

ˈklō-ˈsnit

: bound together by feelings of very close association

a close-knit family