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collective

joint / group-based
Adjective[C/U] Both
pl: collectives

This term carries a strong sense of unity and shared purpose, often implying a democratic or egalitarian spirit. It suggests that the power or responsibility is distributed equally rather than held by a single leader. When used as a noun, it often evokes a specific socio-economic structure, such as a commune or a cooperative, where the goal is mutual support rather than individual profit.

Countable when referring to a specific organized group (an artists' collective). Uncountable when referring to the general quality of being shared (collective agreement).

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is in a corporate meeting while Eleanor is at her bridge club.
Eleanor Smith

DAVID WHY IS CHLOE IN A GARDENING COLLECTIVE NOW???

Eleanor Smith
David Smith
David Smith

Mom please, she's just pivoting her brand. Chill out.

💡
Eleanor is confused by the concept of a 'collective' (a cooperative enterprise) and expresses this through her characteristic use of all-caps. David responds using corporate jargon ('pivoting her brand') to describe his daughter's new hobby, reflecting his persona as a manager who overuses buzzwords.

Meanings

Adjectivejoint

Done by people acting as a group.

"The decision was a collective effort by the entire team."

Noungroup-based

A cooperative enterprise started by individuals who share responsibilities and profits.

"They formed an artists' collective to share studio space and marketing costs."

Related Words

Last Updated: June 8, 2026Report an Error