Synonyms for

Brethren

Verb / ˈbreðrʌn / Another word for brethren — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Brethren means brothers, members of a male religious group, or members of the same organization or society.

Synonyms & similar words

buddy bloodbrother chum brother sister crony sidekick comrade pal brothers kinsmen siblings comrades associates colleagues fellows members peers confreres allies partners collaborators co-workers coadjutors

Synonyms by register

Formal

fellow members compatriots associates

Informal

bros guys folks mates

Literary

kinsmen brothers-in-arms

Antonyms

strangers enemies opponents rivals outsiders foes

Common collocations

  • dear brethren
  • fellow brethren
  • all brethren
  • our brethren
  • the brethren
  • among brethren

Word family

noun brotherhood

Usage note

Brethren is an archaic or formal term, often used in religious or fraternal contexts. It is rarely used in everyday modern English.

Example sentences

  1. The brethren of the church helped the poor and needy.
  2. The brethren of the Masonic Lodge met in secret.
  3. The brethren of the army fought bravely in the war.
  4. The brethren of the union went on strike for better pay.
  5. The brethren of the society elected a new leader.

Quotes

  • The church is not a gallery for the exhibition of eminent Christians, but a school for the education of imperfect ones. - Henry Ward Beecher
  • The brethren, by mutual confidence and union of effort, can multiply their powers infinitely. - William John Wills
  • The way to overcome the angry man is with gentleness, the evil man with goodness, the miser with generosity and the liar with truth. - Indian Proverb

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