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Neighborly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neighborly

[หˆneษชbษ™rli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

friendly relations

Neighborly describes the behavior or attitude that is characteristic of a good neighbor, emphasizing friendliness and cooperation within a community. It involves showing kindness to others, offering help, and fostering a sense of belonging and support among people living close to one another. This term can also reflect social responsibility, where individuals engage positively with their neighbors, contributing to a harmonious community environment.

Synonyms

cordial, friendly, polite, sociable, welcoming.

Examples of usage

  • The neighborly gestures included bringing over baked goods.
  • They had a neighborly chat while mowing their lawns.
  • The community organized neighborly activities to strengthen bonds.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, neighborly behavior is considered a virtue and is often taught from a young age.
  • Expressions like 'love thy neighbor' highlight the importance of treating others with respect and care.
  • Celebrations like block parties or community events foster neighborly relationships and create stronger bonds.

Psychology

  • 'Neighborly' behavior promotes a sense of community, which can increase individual happiness and mental well-being.
  • Studies show that neighborhoods with friendly interactions lead to lower crime rates and more civic involvement.
  • Being neighborly can create a support system for individuals, helping them feel less isolated.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, neighborly relationships serve as a backdrop for the unfolding drama, showcasing community dynamics.
  • Literary figures often portray characters as neighborly to illustrate themes of friendship, trust, and shared experiences.
  • Childrenโ€™s books often emphasize the value of being neighborly to teach important social skills and kindness.

Pop Culture

  • Many sitcoms emphasize neighborly interactions, highlighting both the comedic and heartfelt moments of living close to others.
  • The concept of 'neighborly' is often explored in songs, reminiscing about community and everyday life.
  • Movies frequently depict neighborly acts as pivotal moments in character development, showing growth and connection.

Origin of 'neighborly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'neahgebur', meaning 'near dweller' or one who lives nearby.
  • It evolved through Middle English to 'neighbour', reflecting community and closeness.
  • The suffix '-ly' in 'neighborly' indicates a manner of behaving, so it means acting like a good neighbor.

The term 'neighborly' originates from the Middle English word 'neighbore', which itself is derived from the Old English 'neahgebลซr', meaning 'near dweller'. This Old English word is a combination of 'neah' (near) and 'gebลซr' (dweller) and reflects the concept of people living close to each other. Over the centuries, the term evolved to encompass not just physical proximity but also the social relationship between individuals. The notion of being a good neighbor has been crucial in community-building throughout history, influencing various cultures to foster community ties through neighborly actions. Such behaviors are emphasized in many societies as integral to maintaining a stable and supportive living environment, where individuals look out for one another and engage in communal activities.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,884, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.