1. an association of craftsmen or merchants organized to help each other and to maintain standards in their profession
Usage: historical
2. an organization of people with similar interests or pursuits

Examples

• The medieval guild controlled who could practice the trade in the city.
• Craftsmen joined the guild to learn from master artisans.
• The writers’ guild protects the interests of its members.
• She belongs to a quilting guild that meets monthly.
• The guild established strict quality standards for their products.
• Modern trade unions evolved from medieval guilds.