gemeinschaft

[ German guh-mahyn-shahft ]

noun

, (often initial capital letter)

, plural ge·mein·schaf·ten [g, uh, -, mahyn, -shahf-t, uh, n].

1. an association of individuals having sentiments, tastes, and attitudes in common; fellowship.
2. Sociology. a society or group characterized chiefly by a strong sense of common identity, close personal relationships, and an attachment to traditional and sentimental concerns.

gemeinschaft

/ ɡəˈmainʃaft /

noun

1. often capital a social group united by common beliefs, family ties, etc Compare gesellschaft

Word History and Origins

Origin of gemeinschaft¹

1935–40; < German: community, equivalent to gemein common + -schaft -ship

Word History and Origins

Origin of gemeinschaft¹

German, literally: community

Example Sentences

For lack of a more suitable English equivalent I have translated Gemeinschaft as communion.

From Project Gutenberg

They went by the name of the Gemeinschaft der Heiligen, and the fervours of the community were at least those of genuine votaries.

From Project Gutenberg