alliance

noun

al·​li·​ance ə-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

1

a

: the state of being allied : the action of allying

nations in close alliance

b

: a bond or connection between families, states, parties, or individuals

a closer alliance between government and industry

2

: an association to further the common interests of the members

specifically : a confederation of nations by treaty

the alliance of Western nations

3

: union by relationship in qualities : affinity

an alliance of industry and academia

4

: a treaty of alliance

Synonyms

• accord
• compact
• convention
• covenant
• pact
• treaty

Examples of alliance in a Sentence

We need to form a closer alliance between government and industry.

strengthen the alliance of western nations

There has been a pattern of shifting alliances in the political world.

The article condemns what some say is an unholy alliance between government and media.

one nation working in alliance with another

There is disagreement within the alliance about how to deal with this problem.

Recent Examples on the Web

Besides Gaza, Biden's defeat might have serious consequences for Ukraine, NATO and America's alliances generally. —Nathaniel Rakich, ABC News, 23 Dec. 2024

But the Renault-Nissan alliance has not been entirely smooth. —Jonathan M. Gitlin, Ars Technica, 23 Dec. 2024

Read the full Scorpio Daily Horoscope Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21) Reflect on your friendships and group alliances. —USA TODAY, 22 Dec. 2024

What People Are Saying Last month, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said in comments made at the European Political Community summit in Budapest that Trump was right to pressure the alliance to increase spending. —Gord Magill, Newsweek, 21 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

alliance

noun

al·​li·​ance ə-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

1

: the state of being allied

2

a

: a union between persons, families, or parties

b

: a union between nations for assistance and protection

3

: a treaty of alliance

Geographical Definition

Alliance

geographical name

Al·​li·​ance ə-ˈlī-ən(t)s 

city in northeastern Ohio northeast of Canton population 22,322