Brothers: meaning, definitions and examples
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brothers
[ ˈbrʌðərz ]
family relation
Brothers refer to male siblings who share at least one biological or legal parent. They often have a close familial bond and may share upbringing, experiences, and responsibilities.
Synonyms
bro, kinsmen, male relative, siblings.
Examples of usage
- My brothers and I went fishing this weekend.
- He has two younger brothers who look up to him.
- The brothers decided to start a business together.
- Growing up, my brothers were my best friends.
- The brothers played in the park every Saturday.
Etymology
The word 'brother' originates from the Old English term 'brōþor', which in turn comes from the Proto-Germanic '*broþar' and the Proto-Indo-European root '*bhrāter'. Its usage has evolved over centuries, retaining its meaning of a male sibling across various languages. The concept of brotherhood transcends biological ties, extending into societal and cultural contexts, often symbolizing unity, camaraderie, and loyalty among males. In many societies, the idea of brothers may encapsulate both familial relationships and the bonds formed between close friends or peers, often framing the narrative of kinship and loyalty. The term has also been utilized in various religious and spiritual contexts, denoting communal bonds, as seen in phrases like 'brothers in faith'.