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