alliance

noun

al·​li·​ance ə-ˈlī-ən(t)s How to pronounce alliance (audio)
Synonyms of alliance
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 of alliance

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hsu most recently served as the head of the Cross Straits Marriage and Family Services alliance. — ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026 As campers vie for the chance to open for their favorite band, tensions rise and friendships are tested — leading to unexpected alliances, revelations, and romances. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 10 Aug. 2026 The company’s recent alliance with Compass to bring more than 500,000 new listings to the Redfin platform and transform the seller experience is another example. — Diane Brady, Fortune, 10 Aug. 2026 If North Korea and Russia continue to work closely on nuclear weapons, Japan and South Korea will use the North Korean threat to justify boosting their alliances with the United States. — Zheng Jiyong, Foreign Affairs, 10 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for alliance

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of alliance was in the 13th century

Rhymes for alliance

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Browse Nearby Words

alliaceous
alliance
Alliance
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Cite this Entry

“Alliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alliance. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

alliance

noun
al·​li·​ance ə-ˈlī-ən(t)s How to pronounce alliance (audio)
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 How to pronounce Alliance (audio)
city in northeastern Ohio northeast of Canton population 22,322

More from Merriam-Webster on alliance

Nglish: Translation of alliance for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about alliance

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