brethren

1 of 2
breth·​ren ˈbret͟h-rən How to pronounce brethren (audio)
ˈbre-t͟hə-,
-t͟hərn

plural of brother

used chiefly in formal or solemn address or in referring to the members of a profession, society, or religious denomination
our church brethren

Brethren

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plural noun

religion : members of various sects originating chiefly in 18th century German Pietism
especially : dunkers

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Plural Noun

1797, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of brethren was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near brethren

Cite this Entry

“Brethren.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brethren. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

brethren

breth·​ren ˈbret͟h-(ə-)rən How to pronounce brethren (audio)
ˈbret͟h-ərn

plural of brother

used chiefly in formal or solemn address

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