fraternization
fraternization Lexical Profile
fraternization Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Informal, intimate, or friendly association with people of a different rank, opposing group, or restricted status in violation of established organizational or institutional rules.
"The corporation updated its human resources handbook to clarify the policy on workplace fraternization between managers and direct reports."
The act or process of associating or forming friendly relationships with others, especially in a brotherly or congenial manner.
"The annual conference encouraged open fraternization among scholars from different universities."
Word Nuance & Usage
While originally referring to warm, brotherly fellowship, in modern professional, organizational, and military contexts 'fraternization' frequently carries a disapproving connotation of improper or prohibited socializing across hierarchical boundaries.
• Rhymes for fraternization
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the verb 'fraternize', from French 'fraterniser', which goes back to Medieval Latin 'fraternizare' and Latin 'fraternus' ('brotherly'), from 'frater' ('brother').