Brotherly

/ˈbrʌðərli/ adjective

Definition

Showing the kind affection, loyalty, or support that a brother typically shows, or relating to brothers.

Etymology

From Old English 'brothor' (brother) with the suffix '-ly' meaning 'like' or 'in the manner of.' The concept evolved from describing actual sibling relationships to describing any caring, loyal behavior.

Kelly Says

The term 'brotherly love' is so culturally significant that Philadelphia is nicknamed 'the City of Brotherly Love'—and it was chosen because of Quaker William Penn's ideal of tolerant, affectionate community, showing how a family concept expanded to define an entire city's values.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.