Solidarity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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solidarity

[ˌsɒl.ɪˈdær.ə.ti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

showing support

Unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest; mutual support within a group.

Synonyms

mutual support, support, unity.

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Word Description / Examples
solidarity

This term is often used in social and political movements to show the mutual support among people who share a common goal or cause.

  • The workers showed great solidarity during the strike.
  • International solidarity is crucial in times of global crisis.
unity

Typically used to describe the state of being together or in agreement as a whole, often in larger groups such as communities, nations, or organizations.

  • National unity is crucial during times of crisis.
  • The event promoted unity among different cultural groups.
support

A very general term that can be used in almost any context where help or assistance is provided.

  • Thank you for your support during my illness.
  • The coach's support helped the athlete win the championship.
mutual support

This phrase is commonly used to describe a situation where people or groups help each other, often in a more personal or community-based context.

  • Families rely on mutual support during tough times.
  • Mutual support among team members is essential for success.

Examples of usage

  • Workers showed solidarity by going on strike together.
  • The community came together in solidarity to protest against injustice.
Context #2 | Noun

shared beliefs or interests

The feeling that you belong to a group and share its ideas and aims.

Synonyms

camaraderie, community, fellowship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
solidarity

Used when people come together to support a common cause, often in social or political movements. It conveys a sense of unity and mutual support among individuals with a shared goal.

  • The workers showed great solidarity during the strike.
  • In times of crisis, community solidarity is crucial.
fellowship

Often used to describe a friendly association, especially with people who share similar interests or beliefs. It can also refer to a group united by a common mission or purpose.

  • He enjoyed the fellowship of his church group.
  • The scholars were awarded fellowships to support their research.
camaraderie

Describes the friendly and lighthearted rapport between people who spend a lot of time together, often in a group or team setting. It emphasizes friendship and mutual trust.

  • The camaraderie among the team members was evident during the tournament.
  • Working together for so long, they developed a strong sense of camaraderie.
community

Refers to a group of people living in the same area or having a particular characteristic in common. It can also imply a sense of belonging and mutual interdependence.

  • The local community gathered to celebrate the festival.
  • She found a supportive community in her new neighborhood.

Examples of usage

  • There is a sense of solidarity among the team members.
  • They expressed solidarity with the cause by attending the rally.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'solidarity' originates from the Latin word 'solidus,' meaning whole or undivided.
  • The concept gained prominence during the French Revolution, where it emphasized community and mutual support.
  • In the 19th century, labor movements began using 'solidarity' to express unity among workers for common rights.

Social Movements

  • Solidarity played a key role in the Civil Rights Movement, uniting diverse groups to fight against racial injustice.
  • The Solidarity trade union in Poland was vital during the 1980s for advocating workers' rights in a communist regime.
  • Global campaigns for climate action often evoke solidarity, calling citizens worldwide to unite for the planet's health.

Psychology

  • Research shows that feeling of solidarity boosts mental well-being, creating a sense of belonging.
  • Experiences of solidarity can activate neural pathways linked to happiness, reinforcing positive social behaviors.
  • People who feel solidarity are more likely to engage in altruistic behavior, helping others without expecting anything in return.

Pop Culture

  • In popular films, themes of solidarity are often depicted through characters who band together for a common goal, like in superhero movies.
  • Songs like 'We Are the World' showcase solidarity by bringing together famous artists to raise awareness for global issues.
  • Social media campaigns often use hashtags to create a sense of solidarity, encouraging people to come together for causes such as #BlackLivesMatter.

Philosophy

  • 'Solidarity' is often discussed in ethical philosophy as a moral obligation towards others in society.
  • Philosopher Emile Durkheim emphasized the importance of social solidarity in maintaining societal cohesion.
  • Solidarity can be viewed as a form of social contract, where individuals agree to support each other for the greater good.

Origin of 'solidarity'

The word 'solidarity' originates from the Latin word 'solidaritas', meaning 'unity or agreement of feeling or action'. It gained prominence in the 1980s during the labor movement and has since been used to describe the support and unity within various social, political, and humanitarian movements.


See also: solid, solidification, solidified, solidifier, solidify, solidifying, solidity.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,674 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.