so·ci·e·ty
(s
-s
-t
)
KEY
NOUN:
pl.
so·ci·e·ties
-
- The totality of social relationships among humans.
- A group of humans broadly distinguished from other groups by mutual interests, participation in characteristic relationships, shared institutions, and a common culture.
- The institutions and culture of a distinct self-perpetuating group.
- An organization or association of persons engaged in a common profession, activity, or interest:
a folklore society; a society of bird watchers.
-
- The rich, privileged, and fashionable social class.
- The socially dominant members of a community.
- Companionship; company:
enjoys the society of friends and family members.
-
Biology
A colony or community of organisms, usually of the same species:
an insect society.
ETYMOLOGY:
French
société, from Old French, from Latin
societ
s,
fellowship, from
socius,
companion; see
sekw-
1 in Indo-European roots
