brotherhood

noun

broth·​er·​hood ˈbrə-t͟hər-ˌhu̇d 

1

: the quality or state of being brothers

2

: fellowship, alliance

3

: an association (such as a labor union or monastic society) for a particular purpose

4

: the whole body of persons engaged in a business or profession

Synonyms of brotherhood

• organization
• fraternity
• association
• society
• institution
• institute
• chamber

Examples of brotherhood in a Sentence

they're a brotherhood of retired war veterans

a family that has been part of the brotherhood of police officers for four generations

Recent Examples on the Web

The cap’s crown is decorated with three clasping hands symbolizing unity and brotherhood. — Nancy Olson, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026

Grateful for that eternal brotherhood. — Staff Author, PEOPLE, 23 June 2026

Filmmakers have been inspired to use the game, and everything that surrounds it, as a vehicle for humanist stories, some with themes of brotherhood or resilience, and others carrying significant political messages. — Carlos Aguilar, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 June 2026

Now, Wilson sits on the cusp of joining that brotherhood, with just a week remaining until the NBA draft. — Lauren Williams, AJC.com, 16 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English brotherhede, brotherhod, alteration of brotherrede, from Old English brōthorrǣden, from brōthor + rǣden condition — more at kindred entry 2

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for brotherhood

• adulthood
• babyhood
• cottonwood
• fatherhood
• firewood
• fuelwood
• hardihood
• ironwood
• leatherwood
• likelihood
• livelihood
• maidenhood

Kids Definition

brotherhood

noun

broth·​er·​hood ˈbrət͟h-ər-ˌhu̇d 

1

: the state of being brothers or a brother

2

: an association of people for a particular purpose

3

: the persons engaged in the same business or profession