society
UK[səˈsaɪ.ə.ti]US[səˈsaɪ.ə.t̬i]
n
a large group of people who live together in an organized way, making decisions about how to do things and sharing the work that needs to be done
n
an organization for people who have the same interest or aim
n
the state of being with other people
Morpheme Breakdown
soci
ety
soci
companion
ety
noun suffix
Etymology
the word 'society' entered english in the 16th century from old french 'societé', which itself derived from latin 'societās', meaning fellowship, association, alliance. this latin term was built on 'socius', signifying a companion or partner. the core concept evolved from a literal bond between individuals to describe the abstract, organized system of human companionship and collective living. thus, the modern meaning retains the fundamental idea of a state of being connected, now applied to complex civil structures.
Analysis
Structure: soci (companion) + ety (noun suffix)
soci originates from latin 'socius', meaning companion, ally, partner. ety is a common noun-forming suffix from latin '-ietas' (via old french '-eté'), indicating a state or condition.
Examples
technology has transformed modern society.
she was elected president of the local historical society.
i enjoy the society of good friends.