Main Entry:

broth·er·hood

Pronunciation:

\ˈbrə-thər-ˌhu̇d\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English brotherhede, brotherhod, alteration of brotherrede, from Old English brōthorrǣden, from brōthor + rǣden condition — more at kindred

Date:

14th century

1 : the quality or state of being brothers 2 : fellowship, alliance 3 : an association (as a labor union or monastic society) for a particular purpose 4 : the whole body of persons engaged in a business or profession