A more thorough explanation:

Definition: Head of family (also known as head of household or householder) is the person who takes care of a family. This person is responsible for providing practical support and maintenance to the people living in their household, based on moral or legal obligation.

The term "head of family" is commonly used in homestead law. Homestead exemption statutes have been adopted by most jurisdictions, which allow heads of household to declare their homes and land as homesteads. This exempts them from general debt enforcement in bankruptcy. Some states also offer property tax exemptions for homestead property.

Example: John is a single father who lives with his two children. He is the head of family and is responsible for providing for his children's basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing. John can also declare his home as a homestead, which would protect it from being taken away in bankruptcy.

Explanation: This example illustrates the definition of head of family. John is the person who takes care of his family and provides for their basic needs. He is also eligible to declare his home as a homestead, which is a benefit available to heads of household.