brotherhoods
|bro-ther-hoods|
🇺🇸
/ˈbrʌðərˌhʊdz/
🇬🇧
/ˈbrʌðəhʊdz/
(brotherhood)
unity and association
Etymology
'brotherhood' originates from Old English elements: 'brōþor' (brother) + the suffix '-hād' (state, condition), forming 'brōþorhād'.
'brōþorhād' in Old English evolved through Middle English as 'brotherhod'/'brotherhood' and eventually became the modern English word 'brotherhood'.
Initially, it meant 'the state or condition of being brothers'; over time it broadened to mean 'an association, fellowship, or spirit of solidarity among people'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'brotherhood': organized groups or societies of people united by a common profession, interest, religion, or purpose (e.g. guilds or fraternal orders).
Several brotherhoods in the city coordinated to restore the old library.
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Noun 2
plural of 'brotherhood': the relationships or ties between brothers (blood relatives) or between people who treat each other like brothers.
Family brotherhoods can be strong, but different households form different brotherhoods over time.
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Noun 3
plural of 'brotherhood': instances or expressions of camaraderie and solidarity among groups of people.
During the crisis, many brotherhoods formed among volunteers from different backgrounds.
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Last updated: 2026/01/07 21:02