fellowship
FEL-oh-ship
/ˈfɛloʊʃɪp/
Friendly association, especially with people who share one's interests; also, a position for advanced study or research.
Carries a sense of warmth, mutual support, and shared purpose. In academic contexts, it refers to a prestigious grant or position.
The story behind the word. The word comes from Old Norse 'félagi.' The 'fé' meant 'cattle' or 'money,' and 'lag' meant 'laying down.' So a 'fellow' was originally someone who put their money together with yours to go into business. It evolved from a financial partnership to a spiritual and social one.
Word relationships
- camaraderie: Camaraderie is more about lighthearted friendship; fellowship implies a deeper, often more serious shared purpose.
- companionship: Companionship is simply being with someone; fellowship is sharing a common life or goal.
- estrangement: Estrangement is the state of being alienated, whereas fellowship is the state of being connected.
- animosity: Animosity is active hostility, the opposite of the friendly bond of fellowship.
Commonly confused with
- membership: Membership is just being on a list; fellowship is the active feeling of belonging and sharing.
Word family
- fellow (noun): A person in the same position or involved in the same activity.
Collocations
- spirit of fellowship
- research fellowship
- christian fellowship
- close fellowship
Example sentences
- "The fellowship of the ring was bound by a common quest to save their world." Describing a bond between travelers.
- "She was awarded a prestigious fellowship to study marine biology at the Smithsonian." Academic achievement.
Memory hook
Fellows on a ship sharing a common trip. Shared money, shared journey.
When not to use
Avoid using it for purely professional, cold business partnerships where no personal bond exists.
Fun facts
- In many UK and US universities, 'Fellows' are the senior members who govern the college.
Related words
Explore more words
affinity, kinship, solidarity, convivial, companionable, colleague
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