n.
- A close association of nations or other groups, formed to advance common interests or causes: an alliance of labor unions opposing the bill.
- A formal agreement establishing such an association, especially an international treaty of friendship.
- A connection based on kinship, marriage, or common interest; a bond or tie: the shifting alliances within a large family.
- Close similarity in nature or type; affinity: the ancient alliance between mathematics and music.
- The act of becoming allied or the condition of being allied: the church, acting in alliance with community groups.
[Middle English, from Old French aliance, from alier, to ally. See ally.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
