Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Guild?

\Guild\, n. [OE. gilds, AS. gild, gield, geld, tribute, a society or company where payment was made for its charge and support, fr. AS. gildan, gieldan, to pay. See {Yield}, v. t.] 1. An association of men belonging to the same class, or engaged in kindred pursuits, formed for mutual aid and protection; a business fraternity or corporation; as, the Stationers' Guild; the Ironmongers' Guild. They were originally licensed by the government, and endowed with special privileges and authority. 2. A guildhall. [Obs.] --Spenser. 3. A religious association or society, organized for charitable purposes or for assistance in parish work.