So*ci"e*ty (?), n.; pl. Societies (#). [L. societas, fr. socius a companion: cf. F. société. See Social.]
1.
The relationship of men to one another when associated in any way; companionship; fellowship; company.
"Her loved
society."
Milton.
There is society where none intrudes
By the deep sea, and music in its roar.
Byron.
2.
Connection; participation; partnership.
[R.]
The meanest of the people and such as have the least society with the acts and crimes of kings.
Jer. Taylor.
3.
A number of persons associated for any temporary or permanent object; an association for mutual or joint usefulness, pleasure, or profit; a social union; a partnership; as, a missionary society.
4.
The persons, collectively considered, who live in any region or at any period; any community of individuals who are united together by a common bond of nearness or intercourse; those who recognize each other as associates, friends, and acquaintances.
5.
Specifically, the more cultivated portion of any community in its social relations and influences; those who mutually give receive formal entertainments.
Society of Jesus. See Jesuit. -- Society verses [a translation of F. vers de société], the lightest kind of lyrical poetry; verses for the amusement of polite society.
© Webster 1913.