sisterhood
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɪstəhˌʊd/
US
- /ˈsɪstərhʊd/
Description
- Bond between women
- solidarity
- female companionship
- shared identity
- mutual support
Sisterhood isn't just about having sisters by birth. It's the strong feeling of connection, support, and shared understanding between women. Think of a group of friends rallying around one another during tough times; that's sisterhood in action. The term is often used for women standing together for equal rights or through shared struggles. But it also lives in everyday life: the comfort of knowing someone "gets" you, the shared laughter over life's strange moments, and steady support through hard times. It's about lifting each other up, celebrating success, and facing challenges together.
Sisterhood is a complex concept encompassing the bond between women, characterized by mutual support, understanding, and solidarity. While it literally refers to the state of being sisters, its meaning extends far beyond biological relationships. It involves recognizing shared experiences—both joys and hardships—and forging connections based on empathy and respect.
Historically, "sisterhood" gained prominence within feminist movements, representing a powerful force for social change. Women united under this banner to advocate for equal rights, challenge unfair systems, and create safe spaces for one another. A classic example is the suffragette movement; its collective strength was fueled by a deep sense of political and personal sisterhood.
However, sisterhood isn't limited to activism. It thrives in everyday life: within families, friendships, workplaces, and communities. It is the unspoken understanding between women who have faced similar life stages or challenges, the willingness to offer encouragement, and the genuine celebration of each other's achievements.
Ultimately, sisterhood serves as a source of resilience and empowerment. When women support one another, they create a network of strength that allows them to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. It is the recognition that we are stronger together than apart. As often emphasized in inclusive social movements, true sisterhood is a connection that strives to transcend race, class, and other divisions, representing an enduring bond built on empathy and mutual respect.
Examples
- 1
Team bonds
A real sense of sisterhood grew among the women on the team.
- 2
Retreat
The retreat was designed to build sisterhood rather than competition.
- 3
Local group
After moving to a new city, she found sisterhood in a local cycling group.
- 4
Cultural identity
The film celebrates Black sisterhood and the support women give each other.
- 5
Religious community
She spent several years in a Catholic sisterhood.
Meaning
a Catholic sisterhood
a community of nuns
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- sisterhoodnoun
Forms
- sisterhoodspluralnoun