Membership

Definition

Membership denotes the state of being a member of a group, organization, or association, often one that is formalized.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛmbərˌʃɪp/
• Respelling: MEM-bur-ship (with "MEM" as in "memory," "bur" as in "burger," and "ship" as in "ship")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɛmbəˌʃɪp/
• Respelling: MEM-buh-ship (with "MEM" as in "memory," "buh" as in "butter," and "ship" as in "ship")

In both dialects, "membership" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "MEM." The pronunciation is similar across both American and British English, with a slight difference in the pronunciation of the second syllable: "MEM-bur-ship" in American English and "MEM-buh-ship" in British English.

Etymology

The term "membership" originates from the Old English "membor" which means "limb, organ or part." Over time, "membor" evolved into "member" in Middle English, denoting a person belonging to a group. The suffix "-ship" denotes a state or condition, thus combining to mean "the state of being a member."

Derivatives

• Memberships
• Membershipless
• Membership-based
• Membership fee
• Membership card

Synonyms

• Affiliation
• Enrollment
• Association

Antonyms

• Exclusion
• Ostracism
• Non-affiliation

Usage

General Usage

"Membership" is commonly used to signify belonging to a particular group, especially in the context of clubs, societies, associations, and organizations.

Business and Organizational Usage

In many professional and business settings, membership may indicate certain rights, benefits, and responsibilities associated with being part of a specific organization or association.

Related Terms

• Associate
• Subscriber
• Registration
• Dues
• Privilege

Detailed Definition

Noun

• State of Belonging: The fact of being a member of a group or organization.
• Example: Her membership in the club was approved last week.

• Body of Members: The number or body of members in a group.
• Example: The organization has a membership of over 1,000.

• Associated Rights and Duties: The rights, duties, advantages, etc., that come with being a member of a group.
• Example: With your gym membership, you also get access to the swimming pool.