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fraternize

Fraternize (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/ˈfratənʌɪz/

What does fraternize mean?

To associate or interact with someone in a friendly or informal way, particularly when one is not supposed to.
"The boss warned the employees not to fraternize during office hours."

Detailed Meaning of Fraternize

It is also often used to mean socializing with people you work with, despite any formal rules or expectations forbidding it. For example, military personnel are often not allowed to fraternize with their colleagues and superiors, as it is seen as compromising the professional relationship and impartiality.

The term "fraternize" comes from the Latin word "frater" which means "brother" and it usually implies a sense of camaraderie and friendliness. It is often used in formal or professional settings to describe socializing or forming friendships with people who are outside of one's usual social or professional circle.

It's a neutral word, it can have a positive connotation as it can lead to building camaraderie and teamwork, but also it can have a negative connotation, in case it's leading to distration or conflict of interest.

Example Sentences for Fraternize

1. He refused to fraternize with his colleagues after the disagreement.
2. The soldiers were strictly forbidden to fraternize with the enemy.
3. Despite their differences, the two politicians decided to fraternize for the sake of diplomacy.
4. It is rare to see members of rival gangs fraternize outside their territories.
5. The teacher reprimanded the students for fraternizing instead of focusing on their assignments.
6. The athletes were encouraged to fraternize and build camaraderie during the training camp.

Origin and Etymology of Fraternize

The verb 'fraternize' has its roots in the Latin word 'fraternus,' which means 'brotherly.' It is formed from 'frater,' meaning 'brother.' 'Fraternize' originally meant to associate or interact with someone in a friendly or informal way, particularly within a brotherly or companionable context. Over time, it acquired a more specific connotation, often suggesting socializing with individuals from a group or organization with which one is not supposed to associate, such as fraternizing with the enemy during wartime or mingling with coworkers in a manner that goes against workplace policies. The etymology of 'fraternize' underscores the sense of camaraderie and brotherhood that underlies social interactions, whether they are considered appropriate or not.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb fraternize:

ignore

shun

socialize

avoid

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Fraternize

1. The strict rules in the monastery prohibited the monks from fraternizing with the local community.
2. The new recruit was hesitant to fraternize with the senior members of the team.
3. Despite their initial reservations, the neighbors started to fraternize and became close friends.
4. The princess was advised not to fraternize with commoners.
5. The captain reminded the crew members not to fraternize with passengers during the voyage.
6. The club members regularly fraternize at social events and gatherings.
7. The rival gang leaders decided to fraternize to find a peaceful solution.
8. The soldiers were instructed not to fraternize with the civilians during the mission.
9. The strict dress code prevented the employees from fraternizing during company functions.
10. The prisoners were strictly monitored to ensure they didn't fraternize with each other.
11. The diplomats from different countries gathered to fraternize and discuss important issues.
12. The school implemented a policy to discourage students from fraternizing on school premises.
13. The political candidates were seen fraternizing with their supporters at campaign rallies.
14. The teacher was warned not to fraternize with students on social media.