Social can be defined as an adjective that pertains to interactions, relationships, or activities involving individuals or groups within a community or society. It represents the collective aspects of human behavior, customs, and cultural norms that influence social interaction and foster a sense of belonging among individuals.
In a broader context, social refers to the nature of society itself, encompassing its structures, institutions, and systems. It involves the study of human society, its organization, and the dynamics that shape it, including social hierarchies, divisions, and inequalities that exist within societies.
From an individual standpoint, being social refers to a person's ability to engage and interact with others effectively. It encompasses communicating, relating, and connecting with others through various means, such as face-to-face conversations, online platforms, or social gatherings. Being social entails understanding and adhering to social norms, etiquettes, and expectations prevalent in different social settings.
Moreover, social can also describe activities or initiatives aimed at promoting collective well-being, such as social welfare programs, social justice movements, and social entrepreneurship. These endeavors seek to address systemic issues, foster inclusivity, and enhance the welfare of individuals and communities at large.
In summary, the term social encompasses the broad spectrum of interactions, relationships, behaviors, and structures that define and shape human society, as well as the ability and inclination of individuals to engage with others in a meaningful way.
Pert. to men as living in society; ready to engage in friendly and familiar intercourse; companionable; disposed to mix in society; festive.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "social" derives from the Latin word "sociālis", which comes from "socius" meaning "companion" or "ally". It is related to the Latin verb "sociāre" which means "to unite" or "to join". In essence, the term "social" originally referred to the idea of being connected or associated with others, emphasizing the concept of companionship and interaction within a community or society.