membership

[ mem-ber-ship ]

noun

1. the state of being a member, as of a society or club.
2. the status of a member.
3. the total number of members belonging to an organization, society, etc.

membership

/ ˈmɛmbəˌʃɪp /

noun

1. the members of an organization collectively
2. the state of being a member

Word History and Origins

Origin of membership¹

First recorded in 1640–50; member + -ship

Example Sentences

Is it any wonder that as labor union membership plummeted, wealth inequality expanded, health care access dwindled, and paychecks stagnated?

From Salon

The Electoral Commission is calling for tougher penalties for criminal acts, tighter political party membership rules, including potential deselection, and a review of whether to bring in secure campaigning zones.

From BBC

He added that would be possible, not by offering Ukraine Nato membership, but by building "stronger, deeper" economic relationships with the country.

From BBC

And while the membership is huge, individual walks are typically much smaller, no more than 35 people, Cheng said, out of consideration for the neighborhoods where they’re walking.

From Los Angeles Times

"Sadly, the Labour Party no longer represents that socialist vision and I have, therefore, decided today to cease my membership."

From BBC

Related Words

• enrollment
• participation