Brother Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จโ๐ฆ
brother
[หbrสรฐษr ]
Definitions
family
A male sibling. A boy or man in relation to other sons and daughters of his parents.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| brother |
Used to refer to a male sibling in an informal or everyday setting. It can also be used to show a close bond or camaraderie similar to that of a family.
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| sibling |
Used in a more formal or general context when referring to brothers and sisters collectively. It is gender-neutral and can be used to describe family relationships without specifying gender.
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Examples of usage
- My brother is younger than me.
- He is my little brother.
- We are brothers.
friendship
A close friend or associate.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| brother |
Use when referring to a male sibling or when addressing someone with a strong, almost familial bond.
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| friend |
Use for a person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, usually excluding family relations.
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| companion |
Use in more formal or literary contexts to describe someone who shares experiences or accompanies another person on a journey.
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Examples of usage
- He is like a brother to me.
- We have been brothers for years.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, brothers are seen as protectors and play significant roles in family dynamics.
- Famous stories in literature often depict brotherhood as a deep bond, like in 'The Brothers Karamazov' by Dostoevsky, showcasing complex familial relationships.
- The term 'brother' extends beyond blood relations in many cultures, symbolizing camaraderie and loyalty among friends.
Psychology
- Studies show that having brothers can influence social skills and behavior, often leading to increased competitiveness and conflict resolution.
- Sibling relationships, particularly with brothers, are linked to emotional support and can impact self-esteem positively.
- Research indicates that interactions with brothers during childhood can shape future relationships, teaching skills like negotiation and teamwork.
Pop Culture
- Brothers have played central roles in films and television, such as 'The Brothers Bloom' and the series 'Brotherhood,' showcasing their diverse relationships.
- 'Brother' is a common theme in music too, symbolizing loyalty and love, like in the song 'Brother' by Kodaline.
- The phrase 'brotherly love' is widely used to express deep affection and care, often seen in various media forms.
Literature
- Literature often explores the unique bond between brothers, with classics like 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' depicting the mischief shared between siblings.
- In Shakespeare's works, brotherly relationships frequently illustrate themes of loyalty, rivalry, and affection.
- Contemporary novels often delve into the complexities of brotherly love, such as in 'The Kite Runner,' portraying the challenges and joys of these bonds.
Origin of 'brother'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'brother' comes from Old English 'brลรพor,' which is related to similar words in other languages, like 'frรจre' in French.
- It has roots in Proto-Germanic, where it was 'broรพer,' showing its long standing in various cultures.
- The term has evolved but has consistently referred to male siblings across many languages and cultures.
The word 'brother' originated from the Old English word 'broรพor'. It has been used in various languages and cultures to refer to male siblings or close companions. The concept of brotherhood has been valued throughout history, symbolizing kinship, friendship, and loyalty.
See also: broth.