Collegial

/kəˈliːdʒəl/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or reflecting the relationship between colleagues; characterized by friendly cooperation and mutual respect among equals.

Etymology

From Latin 'collegium' (association of colleagues) from 'col-' (together) and 'legere' (to choose). The adjective developed in the 16th century to describe collegial governance systems.

Kelly Says

Universities and law firms pride themselves on being 'collegial'—meaning professors and lawyers work together as equals without strict hierarchy—but this ideal often collides with the reality of competition for promotions and funding.

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