Folks
/foʊks/
Definitions
2 meaningsPeople in general, especially when referred to in an informal or familiar way.
/foʊks/
People in general; a group of people.
Good morning, folks!
💡 Simply: It means a group of people, like your family or friends, or just people in general! Imagine you're at a party and you say, 'Hey folks, welcome!'
👶 For kids: Folks are people! Like your mom, dad, brothers, sisters, and your friends!
More Examples
The folks in my neighborhood are very friendly.
I hope the folks enjoy the show tonight.
How It's Used
"Hey folks, how's it going?"
"We're having a barbecue for the folks this weekend."
One's parents or family members.
/foʊks/
One's family or parents.
I miss the folks back home.
💡 Simply: It can also mean your mom and dad, or your whole family! Like, 'I'm going to visit my folks this weekend!'
👶 For kids: Folks can also be your mom and dad or grandma and grandpa!
More Examples
She went to see her folks on their anniversary.
He called his folks to let them know he arrived safely.
How It's Used
"I'm going to visit the folks this weekend."
Idioms & expressions
For folks' sake
Used to express frustration, annoyance, or exasperation.
"Oh, for folks' sake, could you be quiet?"
From Middle English folk, folc, from Old English folc ('people, nation, tribe').
The term 'folks' has been used for centuries, appearing in various forms in Old English and evolving to its modern usage.
Memory tip
Think of a group of friendly people, like a town's folks.
Word Origin
"people, nation, tribe"