ˈbrəthə(r)ˌhu̇d noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English brotherhod, alteration (influenced by -hod -hood) of brotherhede, alteration (influenced by -hede as in godhede godhead) of brotherrede, from Old English brōthorrǣden, from brōthor brother + rǣden condition — more at kindred
1. : the quality or state of being brothers or a brother : the relation between brothers
2. : brotherly comradeship : fellowship , companionship , alliance
dwelling with the natives in perfect peace and brotherhood
3. : an association (as a guild, fraternity, or monastic society) for a particular purpose
4. : any one of several trade unions ; especially : one among railroad employees
5.
a. : the whole body of persons engaged in a business or profession
the medical brotherhood
b. : a group sharing a common interest or quality
the brotherhood of wind-swept pines
the brotherhood of the handicapped