Another Word for Society: 17 Synonyms with Examples
Society means people living together in an organised way, a particular community or nation, or a club with a shared purpose. Swap it to be more precise.
As a noun: people living together in general
- the public
- the community
- humanity
- people
- civilisation
- the population
As a noun: a particular culture or nation
As a noun: a club or organisation
- club
- association
- group
- organisation
- union
- league
- circle
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- the public
- Ordinary people in general, as distinct from officials or experts.
- community
- A smaller, closer group, often local.
- civilisation
- A society with its own advanced culture, usually historical.
- culture
- The customs, beliefs and arts of a particular society.
- club
- An informal group meeting for a shared interest.
- association
- A formal organisation of people with the same purpose.
Example sentences
- the public: The gardens are open to the public at weekends.
- community: The library is at the heart of the local community.
- civilisation: The museum explores the civilisations of ancient Mesopotamia.
- culture: Tea plays a central role in British culture.
- club: She joined the university's chess club.
- association: The residents' association meets on the first Monday of the month.
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “society”. Check the meaning before you use one.
noun: guild, gild, lodge, order, company, companionship, fellowship
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “society”?
The most useful alternatives are “the public”, “the community”, “humanity”, “people”, “civilisation”. For the main sense (people living together in general), “the public” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “the public” and “community”?
the public: Ordinary people in general, as distinct from officials or experts. community: A smaller, closer group, often local.