Games

Word of the Day

Video

Blog: Words at Play

My Faves

Dictionary

brethren

breth·ren \ˈbreth-rən; ˈbre-thə-, -thərn\

Definition of BRETHREN

plural of brother

—used chiefly in formal or solemn address or in referring to the members of a profession, society, or sect

First Known Use of BRETHREN

before 12th century

Other Forms of Address Terms

appellation, beatitude, emeritus, esquire, sire, sous

Brethren

noun plural

Definition of BRETHREN

: members of various sects originating chiefly in 18th century German Pietism; especially : dunkers

First Known Use of BRETHREN

1822

Other Christian Religious Terms

Pentateuch, blasphemy, curate, doxology, eremite, iconoclasm, liturgy, orison, pneuma, reliquary

BRETHREN Defined for Kids

brethren

breth·ren \ˈbreth-rən\

Definition of BRETHREN for Kids

pl of brother

Hint:Brethren is used chiefly in formal situations.

Learn More About BRETHREN

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "brethren"

Nglish: Translation of "brethren" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "brethren" for Arabic speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about "brethren"

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: BretonPrevious Word in the Dictionary: bretherAll Words Near: brethren

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up brethren? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

View Seen & Heard Highlights from Around the Site

Test Your Vocabulary!

10 Charming Words for Nasty People

Put-downs with flair

Learn More

When "Literally" isn't, well, literal

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Watch Now

Know what this is?

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Go Play

Fear of cats?

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears

Learn More