society - n.
(pl. -ies)
1 the sum of human conditions and activity regarded as a whole functioning interdependently.
2 a social community (all societies must have firm laws).
3 a a social mode of life. b the customs and organization of an ordered community.
4 Ecol. a plant community.
5 a the socially advantaged or prominent members of a community (society would not approve). b this, or a part of it, qualified in some way (is not done in polite society).
6 participation in hospitality; other people's homes or company (avoids society).
7 companionship, company (avoids the society of such people).
8 an association of persons united by a common aim or interest or principle (formed a music society).

Society of Friends see QUAKER . Society of Jesus see JESUIT .

societal adj. (esp. in sense 1). societally adv. [F soci÷t÷ f. L societas -tatis f. socius companion]