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solidarity

sol-ih-DA-ruh-tee /ˌsɒlɪˈdærəti/

nounC1GRESATTOEFLIELTSUPSC

formalpolitical

A deep, binding unity, agreement, or mutual support among individuals or groups who share a common interest, cause, or struggle.

Solidarity is forged in the fire of shared challenges; it is not just friendship, but a political or social commitment to stand together.

The story behind the word. Borrowed from the French 'solidarité,' which was popularized during the French Revolution to describe mutual responsibility. It traces back to the Latin 'solidus,' meaning 'solid' or 'whole.' It represents an unbroken, firm bond of unity among individuals, suggesting that the group is as strong and indivisible as a solid rock.

Word relationships

unity: Unity is a general state of being joined as a whole, while solidarity is a conscious, active choice to support one another in a shared struggle.
alliance: Alliance is a formal agreement between groups for mutual benefit, while solidarity is a deeper, emotional and moral bond of shared identity.

discord: Discord is a lack of agreement or harmony, the opposite of solidarity.
division: Division is the state of being split into opposing, hostile groups.

Commonly confused with

charity: Charity is a one-way act of giving from a position of privilege, while solidarity is a two-way relationship of mutual support among equals.

Word family

solidary (adjective): Characterized by solidarity or shared responsibility.
solidarize (verb): To bring into solidarity or make common cause with.

Collocations

show solidarity
stand in solidarity
international solidarity
solidarity movement

Idioms & expressions

united we stand
in the same boat

Example sentences

"The union members stood in solidarity with the striking factory workers, refusing to cross the picket line." Discussing labor movements and social justice.

Memory hook

Think of a 'solid' block of concrete. A community with 'solidarity' is 'solid'—it cannot be cracked, divided, or broken apart by outside forces. Solidarity makes a community solid.

When not to use

Do not use 'solidarity' for casual, lighthearted agreements; it carries a weight of serious commitment and mutual responsibility.

Fun facts

'Solidarity' (Solidarność) was the name of the famous Polish trade union founded in 1980, led by Lech Wałęsa, which played a central role in ending communist rule in Poland.
In French law, 'obligation solidaire' refers to a joint liability where each debtor is responsible for the entire debt.