solidarity
sol-i-DAR-i-tee
/ˌsɑːlɪˈdæɹəti/
Unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest; mutual support.
Implies a deep, moral, or political commitment to stand with others, especially during times of struggle or crisis.
The story behind the word. Borrowed from the French word 'solidarité' in the mid-19th century. It traces back to the Latin 'solidus', meaning 'solid' or 'whole'. It was popularized globally by the Polish trade union 'Solidarność' (Solidarity) in the 1980s, which helped bring down communist rule in Poland.
Word relationships
- unity: Unity is a general state of being joined as a whole, while solidarity specifically implies active mutual support during a struggle.
- discord: Discord is disagreement or lack of harmony between people or groups.
Commonly confused with
- solitude: Solitude is the state of being alone, whereas solidarity is the state of standing united with others.
Word family
- solidarize (verb): To make common cause with; to join in solidarity.
Collocations
- show solidarity
- stand in solidarity
- international solidarity
Example sentences
- "The factory workers went on strike, and the local community showed solidarity by donating food and supplies." Labor movement
- "We must stand in solidarity with those who are fighting for their basic human rights." Political speech
Memory hook
Think of 'solid'. When a group stands in solidarity, they form a solid, unbreakable wall. A solid wall of support.
When not to use
Do not use to describe simple, emotionless business agreements or logistical coordination.
Fun facts
- The motto of the French Republic is 'Liberté, égalité, fraternité'—where 'fraternité' is essentially the historical equivalent of solidarity.
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