Langimage
English

fraternize

|frat-er-nize|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈfrætərˌnaɪz/

🇬🇧

/ˈfrætənaɪz/

associate closely

Etymology
Etymology Information

'fraternize' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'fraternus,' where 'frater' meant 'brother.'

Historical Evolution

'fraternus' transformed into the French word 'fraterniser,' and eventually became the modern English word 'fraternize' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to treat as a brother,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to associate or form a friendship with someone.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to associate or form a friendship with someone, especially when one is not supposed to.

The soldiers were warned not to fraternize with the locals.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42