Freemasonry
|free-may-sən-ry|
/ˈfriːˌmeɪsənri/
organized brotherhood using masons' symbols and rituals
Etymology
'Freemasonry' originates from English, specifically the noun 'freemason' combined with the suffix '-ry', where 'free' comes from Old English 'frēo' meaning 'not enslaved; free' and 'mason' comes from Old French 'maçon' meaning 'stone-worker'.
'Freemasonry' developed from terms referring to operative stonemasons' guilds in the Middle Ages; those craft organizations and their terminologies evolved into the modern fraternal institutions and the English word 'Freemasonry' became established in the 17th–18th centuries (notably with the foundation of the first Grand Lodge in 1717).
Initially it referred to guilds of skilled stonemasons and their craft; over time it evolved into its current meaning of a fraternal, often semi-secret, society that uses stonemasons' tools and imagery symbolically.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a worldwide fraternal organization (the Masonic order) that developed from the guilds of operative stonemasons and is marked by rituals, symbols, degrees, and a system of mutual support among members.
Freemasonry has lodges and ceremonies in many countries around the world.
Synonyms
Noun 2
the system of beliefs, ritual practices, symbols, and organizational rules associated with Masonic lodges and membership.
Many elements of Freemasonry are symbolic and meant to teach moral lessons.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/04 04:14