confraternities
|con-frat-er-ni-ties|
🇺🇸
/ˌkɑnfrəˈtɝnɪti/
🇬🇧
/ˌkɒnfrəˈtɜːnɪti/
(confraternity)
organized brotherhood; fellowship
Etymology
'confraternity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'confraternitas', where 'con-' meant 'with' or 'together' and 'frater' meant 'brother'.
'confraternity' changed from medieval Latin 'confraternitas' into Old French 'confraternité' and was borrowed into English via ecclesiastical usage, eventually becoming the modern English word 'confraternity'.
Initially, it meant 'the state of brotherhood' or 'a brotherhood', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an organized society or association (often religious or charitable) of people united by a common purpose or fellowship'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
an organized brotherhood or society, especially one for religious, charitable, or mutual-aid purposes.
Many confraternities in the city organize charity drives during the holidays.
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Noun 2
a lay religious association (especially in historical or Catholic contexts) that provides social, devotional, or burial services for its members.
Historically, religious confraternities provided mutual aid and burial services for members.
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Last updated: 2026/01/07 20:52