Let’s talk about משפוחה (mish-poo-chah)—a word that feels like a warm hug and a wink at the same time.

It’s a playful, Yiddish-influenced take on the standard Hebrew word משפחה (mish-pah-chah), meaning “family.” You’ll still hear it today, especially in casual, humorous, or slightly dramatic moments. Think of it as the Hebrew equivalent of saying “the fam” or “the whole clan.”

So when someone says,
“כל המשפוחה באה אלינו לשבת” (“The whole fam is coming over for Shabbat”),
they’re not just giving you the facts—they’re giving you the vibe: chaos, food, opinions, and lots of love.

The word may have old-school Yiddish roots, but it’s got plenty of modern Hebrew flavor. Whether you’re talking about blood relatives or chosen family, משפוחה is less about formality and more about that messy, lovable crew you call your own.