brotherhood
UK: ˈbrʌðəhʊd | US: ˈbrʌðɚhʊd
n. 1. The relationship between brothers.
n. 2. A close association of people sharing common interests, goals, or values.
n. 3. The quality or state of being brotherly; camaraderie.
The word "brotherhood" combines "brother," derived from Old English brōþor (meaning "male sibling"), and the suffix "-hood," from Old English -hād (denoting a state or condition). Originally, it referred to the literal bond between brothers, but by the 14th century, it expanded metaphorically to describe fraternal unions, such as guilds or religious orders. The suffix "-hood" is akin to modern "-ness," abstracting the concept of kinship into a collective identity.
The soldiers shared a strong sense of brotherhood after years of serving together.
The monastery emphasized values of peace and brotherhood.
Their brotherhood was tested but never broken.
The organization promotes brotherhood among its members.
Brotherhood is a central theme in many ancient myths.