Definition

1. Verb (intransitive):
   • To unite or form a group with others for a common purpose or mutual support. It implies a voluntary coming together, often to increase strength or effectiveness.

Usage

• This verb is used to describe the action of people or smaller groups uniting into a larger, more cohesive unit.
• It is typically followed by an adverb or a prepositional phrase (e.g., ), but can also stand alone.
• It often carries a connotation of solidarity in the face of a shared challenge or goal.

Examples

• The small businesses banded together to negotiate better prices with suppliers.
• Residents banded together to clean up the park after the storm.
• We must band together if we want to make a real difference.

Advanced Usage

• "to band together against a common enemy": To unite specifically to oppose a shared threat.
  • Historically, rival tribes would band together against a common enemy.
• "to band together in solidarity": To unite as an expression of mutual support, often in a protest or strike.
  • Workers from all departments banded together in solidarity during the strike.

Variants and Related Words

• Band (noun): A group of people who have a common interest or purpose. (e.g., )
• Band (verb): As a standalone verb, it is less common but can mean to mark with stripes or, archaically, to bind. The phrase "band together" is the primary modern usage for uniting.

Synonyms

• Unite: To come or bring together for a common purpose or action.
• Join forces: To combine efforts or resources.
• Team up: To form a team or partnership.
• Cooperate: To work jointly toward the same end.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Team up: Similar to "band together" but can imply a smaller, often temporary partnership for a specific task.
  • The two companies teamed up to develop the new software.
• Gang up (on): To unite someone, often with a negative connotation of bullying or unfair opposition.
  • It's not fair for everyone to gang up on one person.

Related Idioms

• "Strength in numbers": This idiom expresses the core idea behind "banding together"—that a group is stronger and more effective than individuals.
  • They believe in strength in numbers, so they are encouraging everyone to band together.

Verb

1. form a group or unite
   • The groups banded together