Solidarity: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
September 16, 2026

1. Solidarity (noun): Unity or agreement of feeling or action among individuals with a common interest or purpose.
2. Solidarity (noun): Mutual support within a group, especially among people who share similar beliefs, goals, or challenges.

The word "solidarity" refers to the idea of standing together with others through shared interests, responsibilities, or struggles. It is commonly used in social, political, workplace, and community settings to express unity, cooperation, and collective strength. Strengthen your understanding of community by exploring the grammar, sound, and history of solidarity.

"Solidarity" Definition: What Does "Solidarity" Mean?

The word "solidarity" describes a sense of togetherness and shared responsibility among people. It emphasizes cooperation, loyalty, and support within a group.

Definition of "Solidarity": Group unity

In its most common meaning, "solidarity" refers to unity among individuals who are connected by common goals, values, or circumstances. This definition highlights emotional and moral alignment within a group.

Definition of "Solidarity": Mutual support

"Solidarity" can also mean active support among members of a group, especially during difficult times. In this sense, it focuses on standing by others through actions, not just shared feelings.

Parts of Speech

It functions as an uncountable noun, meaning it generally does not have a plural form. It represents an abstract state of unity and is often the object of verbs like "show," "express," or "declare." While it acts as a singular noun grammatically, it implies a collective group of people acting as one entity.

How to Pronounce "Solidarity"?

Correct pronunciation of "solidarity" helps ensure clarity and confidence when using the word.

To pronounce "solidarity," begin with “sol,” rhyming with “doll,” followed by a soft “uh” sound. Continue with “dar,” placing slight emphasis on this syllable, and finish with “uh-tee,” keeping the ending smooth and natural. The stress falls on the third syllable, giving the word a steady rhythm.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˌsɒl.ɪˈdær.ə.ti/

Synonyms of "Solidarity": Other Ways to Say "Solidarity"

Learning synonyms for "solidarity" helps expand vocabulary and provides alternative ways to express unity and shared purpose. These words can be useful in writing and speech, depending on tone and context.

  • Unity
  • Togetherness
  • Support
  • Alliance
  • Brotherhood
  • Camaraderie
  • Cooperation
  • Mutual support

Antonyms of "Solidarity": Other Ways to Say "Solidarity"

Understanding antonyms of "solidarity" helps clarify its meaning by showing opposing ideas. These words emphasize separation, disagreement, or lack of cooperation.

  • Division
  • Disunity
  • Isolation
  • Conflict
  • Discord
  • Opposition

Examples of "Solidarity" in a Sentence

Seeing "solidarity" used in sentences helps show how the word fits naturally into real communication. These examples reflect personal, social, and professional contexts.

  1. The workers showed solidarity during the strike.
  2. Community members acted in solidarity after the natural disaster.
  3. She expressed solidarity with her coworkers during difficult times.
  4. The event was organized as a sign of solidarity with the affected families.
  5. Students demonstrated solidarity by supporting one another.
  6. The speech called for national solidarity.
  7. They stood in solidarity against unfair treatment.
  8. True solidarity requires both words and actions.
  9. The movement relied on solidarity to succeed.
  10. Acts of solidarity strengthened the group’s bond.

Frequency of Use

The frequency of use of the word "solidarity" can vary depending on social and historical context. According to Google’s Ngram Viewer, usage of "solidarity" increased noticeably during the mid-20th century, particularly during periods of labor movements and civil rights discussions, and it continues to appear regularly in modern political and social discourse.

Variants of "Solidarity"

Variants of "solidarity" appear in related grammatical forms that express similar ideas. These forms help adapt the concept to different sentence structures.

  1. Solidary: Relating to or showing unity.
  2. Solidarily: In a united or cooperative manner.

Related Terms to "Solidarity"

Related terms help broaden understanding of "solidarity" by connecting it to similar concepts. These words often appear in discussions about groups and cooperation.

  1. Unity
  2. Collectivism
  3. Mutual aid
  4. Allegiance
  5. Coalition

Etymology: History and Origins of "Solidarity"

"Solidarity" entered English in the mid-19th century, borrowed from the French word "solidarité." The French term evolved from the legal concept "solidaire," meaning "jointly and severally liable," which itself traces back to the Latin "solidus," meaning solid or whole. Initially, it was a legal term regarding shared debts, where each person was responsible for the whole amount. By the 1840s, the meaning shifted from legal liability to a broader social and political concept of mutual unity and brotherhood.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Solidarity"

Derivatives of "solidarity" extend the idea of unity into related forms. These words appear in both formal and informal writing.

  1. Solidary
  2. Solidarity-based
  3. Inter-solidarity

Common Misspellings of "Solidarity"

Misspellings of "solidarity" often occur due to its length and syllable structure. Recognizing these errors improves writing accuracy.

  1. Solidaraty
  2. Solidaritye
  3. Soladarity
  4. Solidarety

10 Idioms Similar to "Solidarity"

Idioms related to "solidarity" express unity and shared purpose in figurative ways. These phrases add depth and emotion to language.

  1. Stand shoulder to shoulder
  2. All in it together
  3. Stick together
  4. United we stand
  5. Band together
  6. One for all
  7. Have each other’s backs
  8. Pull together
  9. Stand as one
  10. Join forces

10 Common Questions About "Solidarity"

People often ask questions about how "solidarity" is used and what it represents. These answers address common points of confusion.

1. What does "solidarity" mean?

"Solidarity" means unity and mutual support among individuals who share common interests, goals, or challenges.

2. Is "solidarity" always political?

No, "solidarity" can be political, but it is also commonly used in social, workplace, and personal contexts.

3. Can "solidarity" be shown through actions?

Yes, "solidarity" is often demonstrated through actions such as helping, supporting, or standing up for others.

4. Is "solidarity" a positive concept?

In most cases, "solidarity" has a positive meaning because it emphasizes unity and cooperation.

5. Can individuals show "solidarity" alone?

Yes, an individual can show "solidarity" by supporting or aligning with a group or cause.

6. How is "solidarity" used in the workplace?

In workplaces, "solidarity" often refers to employees supporting one another to achieve shared goals.

7. What is the difference between "solidarity" and "unity"?

"Solidarity" emphasizes shared responsibility and support, while "unity" focuses more broadly on togetherness.

8. Can "solidarity" exist without agreement?

Yes, people can show "solidarity" even if they disagree on some issues, as long as they share a common cause.

9. Is "solidarity" used globally?

Yes, "solidarity" is used worldwide in social, political, and humanitarian discussions.

10. Why is "solidarity" important?

"Solidarity" helps groups remain strong, resilient, and effective when facing challenges together.

Conclusion

"Solidarity" refers to unity and mutual support among people with shared interests or goals. Learning this word helps express ideas of cooperation, empathy, and collective strength more clearly. Explore other word definitions on the site to continue expanding your understanding of language.

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