# brethren

/ˈbɹɛðɹən/ (US) · /bɹˈɛðɹən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brethren
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. fellow members

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Literary

people who belong to the same religious or social group.

For teachers: The collective members of a fraternal, religious, or military order, emphasizing a shared bond or mission.

- The leader called upon his brethren to help those in need in the village.
- The manifesto was addressed to his brethren in the movement, urging them to remain steadfast despite the increasing political pressure.

Usage: Always plural; it functions as a collective noun for a specific community.

### 2. brothers

noun · CEFR C2 · Archaic · Literary

an old word for brothers, often used in a spiritual way.

For teachers: An archaic plural of brother, now restricted to religious or highly stylized literary contexts.

- The ancient text spoke of the love between brethren.
- In the solemn atmosphere of the cathedral, the monk prayed for the souls of his departed brethren.

Teaching tip: Modern speakers should use 'brothers' for family members; 'brethren' is almost exclusively found in the Bible or formal lodge settings.

## Examples

- The monks greeted their brethren with a bow.
- The committee addressed its brethren in the industry regarding the new safety standards.
- In the quiet chapel, the brethren gathered for evening prayer, their voices blending in a solemn harmony that transcended the noise of the world outside.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.