Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Resembling or characteristic of a sister: Having the qualities considered typical of a sister, such as affection, protectiveness, loyalty, and closeness.
   • Befitting a sister: Suitable for or appropriate to the relationship between sisters.

Usage

The adjective "sisterly" describes a manner, feeling, or action that is kind, supportive, and intimate in the way a sister would be. It is often used to describe non-familial relationships between women that have a similar depth of care and solidarity.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • She gave me a sisterly hug of encouragement before my interview.
  • There was a sisterly bond between the two teammates, even though they were not related.
  • Her advice was always offered in a warm and sisterly tone.

Advanced Usage

• "sisterly love": A deep, affectionate, and loyal love characteristic of that between sisters.
  • The organization was founded on the principles of compassion and sisterly love.
• In a broader, figurative sense: Can describe solidarity and support within a group of women or a community.
  • The members of the club showed sisterly support for each other's projects.

Variants and Related Words

• Sister (n): A female sibling; also used metaphorically for a close female friend or a member of a religious community or feminist group.
• Sororal (adj): A more formal synonym for "sisterly," often used in academic or technical contexts (e.g., sororal relations).
• Sisterhood (n): The state of being sisters; the feeling of solidarity and support among women.

Synonyms

• Affectionate: Showing fondness or tenderness.
• Supportive: Providing encouragement or emotional help.
• Kind: Having a friendly, generous, and considerate nature.

Antonyms

• Unfriendly: Not kind or pleasant.
• Hostile: Showing or feeling opposition or dislike.
• Indifferent: Having no particular interest or sympathy.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• (To have) a sisterly chat: To have a warm, intimate, and trusting conversation.
  • We sat down for a sisterly chat about our hopes and fears.
• In a sisterly fashion/manner: Behaving in a way that is characteristic of a sister.
  • She took the new intern under her wing and guided her in a sisterly fashion.

Adjective

1. like or characteristic of or befitting a sister
   • sisterly kindness
   • sororal concern