fraternity

noun

fra·​ter·​ni·​ty frə-ˈtər-nə-tē How to pronounce fraternity (audio)
plural fraternities
Synonyms of fraternitynext
1
: a group of people associated or formally organized for a common purpose, interest, or pleasure: such as
a
: a fraternal order
c
: a men's student organization formed chiefly for social purposes having secret rites and a name consisting of Greek letters
d
: a student organization for scholastic, professional, or extracurricular activities
a debating fraternity
2
: the quality or state of being brothers : brotherliness
3
: persons of the same class, profession, character, or tastes
the racetrack fraternity

Examples of fraternity in a Sentence

an atmosphere of fraternity and cooperation a firm believer in community service and a dedicated member of the local fraternity of Good Samaritans
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Before the Missouri Tigers (Shop Mizzou) face Miami in the NCAA Tournament, the fraternity of basketball has already tremendously connected the two programs. Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 16 Mar. 2026 The dancers will execute styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, traditional African dances and an array of contemporary styles, according to The Hemmens website. Mike Danahey, Chicago Tribune, 16 Mar. 2026 Police later arrested three fraternity leaders, Carter Eslick, Ryan Creech and Riley Cass, on suspicion of hazing. Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 11 Mar. 2026 After Martinez died, the university suspended the fraternity. CBS News, 10 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fraternity

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fraternity was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Fraternity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fraternity. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

fraternity

noun
fra·​ter·​ni·​ty frə-ˈtər-nət-ē How to pronounce fraternity (audio)
plural fraternities
1
: a social, honorary, or professional organization
especially : a social club of male college students
2

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