Fraternity Meaning

Meaning of Word

Fraternity refers to a group or organization of people who share common interests, goals, or values. It is often used to describe social organizations, particularly those in educational institutions, that emphasize brotherhood, solidarity, and mutual support among their members.

Definitions and Meaning in English

A social organization or club, especially one formed by students at a college or university.
A group of people who share common interests, goals, or work together for mutual benefit.
The state or quality of being brothers or united in a common purpose.
The feeling or expression of solidarity, mutual support, and friendship among individuals or groups.

History and Origin

The word fraternity originates from the Latin word fraternitas, meaning “brotherhood” or “the quality of being a brother.”

It has been in use in English since the 14th century, primarily referring to a group of men sharing a common goal or brotherhood.
In the context of academic societies, it evolved during the 18th century when college fraternities were established in Europe and later in America, where they became prominent in universities as social organizations. Over time, it expanded to describe any group with common interests, such as trade unions or professional organizations.

Detailed Explanation

Fraternity typically refers to an organization, often based on social bonds, shared values, and mutual support. In educational settings, fraternities are well-known social groups at universities and colleges that provide a network of support, social activities, and often a sense of tradition. Members of a fraternity are typically bound by rituals, ethical codes, and a sense of brotherhood or camaraderie.

However, the term fraternity can also refer to broader forms of solidarity beyond educational contexts. For instance, professional fraternities exist to support individuals in specific industries or fields. Additionally, fraternity can refer to the general concept of brotherhood or collective effort, especially in contexts involving mutual support, compassion, and a sense of unity among people.

Example Sentences

He joined a fraternity at college to build lifelong friendships and networking opportunities.
The fraternity organized a charity event to help local families in need.
The feeling of fraternity among the team members made their collaboration effortless.
As members of the fraternity, they pledged to support each other through their academic journeys.
The fraternity house was filled with students celebrating their success after finals.
The fraternity’s mission was to promote leadership, service, and academic achievement.
Despite their differences, they shared a strong sense of fraternity and mutual respect.
The alumni fraternity network offered career support to its graduates.
His actions were guided by the principles of fraternity, showing compassion for his colleagues.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

Brotherhood – A close-knit group sharing common goals, often with a sense of solidarity and support.
Association – A group formed for a common purpose, which can be social, professional, or educational.
Guild – An organization, especially of workers or professionals, united for mutual benefit.
Club – A group of people with a shared interest or activity, often social in nature.
Camaraderie – The spirit of friendship and mutual support within a group, often a feature of fraternities.

Related Words with Short Explanation

Sorority – A women’s social organization, typically found in academic settings, similar to a fraternity.
Solidarity – The unity or agreement of feeling and action, particularly in support of a cause or group.
Union – An organized group of workers or individuals who unite for a common purpose or goal.
Network – A group of interconnected people who share information, resources, or support.
Altruism – The selfless concern for the well-being of others, often a value in fraternities.

More Matches with Short Explanation

Masonic Lodge – A secret society or fraternity with specific rituals and a focus on moral and ethical development.
Collective – A group of individuals working together toward a shared goal, with an emphasis on mutual cooperation.
Cooperative – A group formed to meet the needs of its members, often based on shared work or resources.
Fellowship – The companionship and mutual support among a group of people with shared interests.
Society – A formal organization or association with a common purpose, often for intellectual, social, or professional pursuits.

Antonyms

Individualism – The belief in or practice of individual independence and self-reliance, often in contrast to fraternity.
Isolation – The state of being separated or alone, lacking connection or solidarity with others.
Division – The act or process of separating or creating distinctions between people or groups.
Anonymity – The state of being unknown or unidentifiable, opposite of the brotherhood or recognition in a fraternity.
Segregation – The enforced separation of different groups, particularly based on identity, often opposed to fraternity.