Meaning & Definition of word "Collective"

Collective

/kəˈlɛktɪv/

noun:

  • 1. A group of individuals acting together for a common purpose.
    • Example: The collective met every month to discuss their goals.
  • 2. An organization or cooperative that operates collectively.
    • Example: She joined a collective of artists to showcase their work.

adjective:

  • 1. Relating to or denoting a group of individuals taken together.
    • Example: The collective decision was made after a lengthy discussion.
  • 2. Shared or done by a group of people.
    • Example: They formed a collective effort to improve their community.

Etymology

From Latin 'collectivus', meaning 'gathered together'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

collective effort:

A combined effort made by a group.

collective bargaining:

Negotiations between employers and a group of employees.

collective consciousness:

The set of shared beliefs and ideas within a group.

Related Words

collectively:

In a collective manner; as a group.

collective noun:

A noun that refers to a group of individuals or things.

Slang Meanings of collective

Meaning: A group effort or collaboration.

Example Sentence: Let's do this trip as a collective and share the costs.

Meaning: A communal living or working arrangement.

Example Sentence: They're part of a collective that supports sustainable living.