brotherhood

American  

[bruhth-er-hood] / ˈbrʌð ərˌhʊd /

noun

1. the condition or quality of being a brother or brothers.

2. the quality of being brotherly; fellowship.

3. a fraternal or trade organization.

4. all those engaged in a particular trade or profession or sharing a common interest or quality.

5. the belief that all people should act with warmth and equality toward one another, regardless of differences in nationality, creed, ethnicity, etc.

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brotherhood British  

/ ˈbrʌðəˌhʊd /

noun

1. the state of being related as a brother or brothers

2. an association or fellowship, such as a trade union

3. all persons engaged in a particular profession, trade, etc

4. the belief, feeling, or hope that all people should regard and treat one another as equals

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Etymology

Origin of brotherhood

1250–1300; Middle English brithirhod ( brother, -hood ); replacing early Middle English brotherhede; -head

Example Sentences

In a statement, the Tehran-backed group urged its "brothers in Iran to avoid targeting neighbouring countries", saying all regional nations should co-operate "to preserve the bonds of brotherhood".

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

With Ramadan so close, the imam emphasised brotherhood, charity and togetherness.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

There has never been a lasting international brotherhood of nationalists.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 22, 2026

"Why do you speak of pressure?" he told France 24 television, pointing to "friendship and brotherhood" between the two countries.

From Barron's • Jan. 9, 2026

Now, however, the concept of human brotherhood began to be assailed by people who were not yet in positions of command, but merely hoped to be so before long.

From "1984" by George Orwell

Related Words

• fraternity
• guild
• partnership