ally
Ally (noun) means a person, group, or country that supports and cooperates with another, especially against a common opponent. Example: “Britain and France were allies during both World Wars.”
How to use ally
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone on your side, working with you toward the same goal.
In modern usage, "ally" is also used for someone outside a marginalized group who actively supports it (for example, an LGBTQ+ ally).
Word forms
allied past tense, ally plural, allied plural, allies plural, Allys plural, allies singular, ally singular, allyest singular, allied singular, allyeth singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She found an unexpected _____ in her old rival.
Etymology
From Old French alier, from Latin alligare, "to bind to" — literally someone bound to you by a shared cause.
Related words
Rhymes for ally
See all rhymes for ally →Frequently asked questions
What does “ally” mean?
The word “ally” means a person, group, or country that supports and cooperates with another, especially against a common opponent. In plain terms, someone on your side, working with you toward the same goal.
How do you pronounce “ally”?
“Ally” is pronounced AL-eye (/ˈæl.aɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ally” in a sentence?
Here is “ally” used in a sentence: “She found an unexpected ally in her old rival.”
What part of speech is “ally”?
Depending on how it is used, “ally” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “ally” come from?
The word “ally” comes from Latin. From Old French alier, from Latin alligare, "to bind to" — literally someone bound to you by a shared cause.
Is “ally” a common word?
“Ally” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “ally” have?
“Ally” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person, group, or country that supports and cooperates with another, especially against a common opponent.
What is the difference between an 'ally' and a 'friend'?
An 'ally' is a person, group, or country that supports and cooperates with another, often toward a shared goal or against a common opponent. A 'friend' is someone you share a personal bond of affection with. Allies work together for a purpose, whereas friendship centres on personal closeness.
What is the difference between an 'ally' and a 'partner'?
An 'ally' supports another, especially against a common opponent, and the connection is often strategic. A 'partner' shares in an activity, business, or relationship on more equal, ongoing terms. Alliances tend to form around a cause, while partnerships centre on joint participation.
What is the difference between 'ally' and 'alley'?
'Ally' is a supporter or associate, and can also be a verb meaning to unite with someone. 'Alley' is a narrow passage or lane between or behind buildings. The two look similar but are spelled and used quite differently.
What preposition follows 'ally' as a verb?
As a verb, 'ally' is usually followed by 'with', as in 'they allied with their neighbours'. The forms 'allied with' and 'allied to' are both used to describe a connection that has been formed.
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