Brother

Definition

Brother is a noun that refers to a male sibling or a man or boy who shares one or both parents with another person. It can also refer to a close male friend or a member of a group or community with shared beliefs or interests.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbrʌðər/
• Respelling: BRUH-thur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbrʌðə/
• Respelling: BRUH-thuh

Etymology

The word "brother" comes from the Old English "brōþor," derived from Proto-Germanic "*broþēr," which is related to similar terms in Germanic and Indo-European languages, such as the German "Bruder" and Latin "frater," all meaning "brother."

Derivatives

• Brotherhood (noun)
• Brotherly (adjective)
• Stepbrother (noun)
• Half-brother (noun)
• Brother-in-law (noun)

Synonyms

• Sibling
• Companion
• Ally

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "brother" is used to describe male siblings or male individuals in close, kin-like relationships. For example, "My brother is younger than me," or "He treated his friend like a brother."

Related Terms

• Sister: A female sibling.
• Siblings: Brothers and sisters as a collective term.
• Kin: One's family and relations.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A male sibling: Refers to a male person who shares one or both parents with another person.
  • Example: "He is my older brother."
• A close male friend or ally: Used to denote a close or trusted male companion, often in an affectionate or familiar way.
  • Example: "We’ve been best friends for years; he’s like a brother to me."
• A member of a community with shared beliefs or interests: Often used in religious or social groups to refer to a fellow member.
  • Example: "The members of the monastery referred to each other as brothers."