Subfamily (noun)

1. A group of related families within a larger family unit, typically characterized by a common ancestry or geographical origin.
2. A biological taxonomic classification, ranking below a family, that groups together species or genera that share common characteristics and ancestry.
3. A group of related individuals within a larger social or cultural group, characterized by shared beliefs, practices, or other cultural or social traits.

Origin:

Derived from the latin 'sub-' meaning under or less and 'familia' meaning family.

Examples:

1. The study of the genetics of human populations has revealed the existence of many different subfamilies, each with its own distinct genetic characteristics.
2. The subfamily of primates, which includes chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans, is of particular interest to scientists studying human evolution.
3. The subfamily of Spanish-speaking immigrants, who have settled in various parts of the United States, maintain close ties and share many cultural traditions.
4. The subfamily of old-money families, who have lived in the area for generations and have accumulated substantial wealth, are known for their philanthropy and social status.
5. The subfamily of jazz musicians, who have honed their skills and developed their own unique styles through many years of practice, are highly respected and sought after performers.