brotherly

adjective

broth·​er·​ly ˈbrə-t͟hər-lē 

1

: of or relating to brothers

2

: natural or becoming to brothers : affectionate

brotherly love

brotherliness noun

brotherly adverb

Synonyms of brotherly

• fraternal

Examples of brotherly in a Sentence

He gave his sister a brotherly hug.

He received brotherly support from his fellow priests.

Recent Examples on the Web

The composition's title is drawn from a verse of scripture calling for brotherly love, and the need to welcome strangers — some of whom might be angels. —ABC News, 22 Mar. 2026

Pulled straight out of Ireland and dropped onto 14th Street, Grace’s boasts dim candlelight, brotherly bartenders, and a leveled grit that leaves you teetering between kicking off a folk song or dragging from a cigarette from a stranger outside. —Charlie Hobbs, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2026

Moreover, there was a brotherly bond among the players, reflected in Jones’ vociferous defense of his quarterback. —Los Angeles Times, 9 Mar. 2026

But is that competitive brotherly spirit still there? —Pat Gallen, CBS News, 26 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for brotherly

• motherly
• southerly

Kids Definition

brotherly

adjective

broth·​er·​ly ˈbrət͟h-ər-lē 

1

: of or relating to brothers

2

: kindly entry 1 sense 2, affectionate

brotherliness noun