Guild Meaning
/ɡɪld/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounA group or association mainly of tradespeople made up of merchants, craftspeople, or artisans, particularly in the Middle Ages, established to oversee and protect their specific commercial interests and to provide mutual aid.
nounA corporation.
Sentence Examples
The guild leader relegated Vince to a lesser officer because he was abusing his power.
He is a member of a potters' guild.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The blacksmith joined the ____ to learn new metalworking techniques from experienced smiths.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
In the Middle Ages, many skilled craftsmen belonged to a ____ that protected their rights and set trade standards.
Word Origin & History
From Middle English gilde, from Old Norse gildi (“payment, guild”). Related to geld, yield, yauld.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"The swinging of its censers, the silence of its members / Oh, the Guild of Mute Assassins"
— 2003, “Guild of Mute Assassins”, performed by Clutch:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The blacksmith joined the ____ to learn new metalworking techniques from experienced smiths.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
In the Middle Ages, many skilled craftsmen belonged to a ____ that protected their rights and set trade standards.