Guild (noun)

1. An association of people with similar interests or aims, especially one formed for mutual aid or protection.
2. An organization of people in a particular trade or craft, aimed at protecting their interests and maintaining standards.

Origin:

Middle english: from old english gild "payment, tribute", of west germanic origin; related to dutch gild, german gilde, also to yield.

Examples:

1. The actors' guild was formed to protect the rights and interests of actors in the industry.
2. The medieval guilds were responsible for setting standards and regulating trade in the cities.
3. The writers' guild was established to support and promote the work of its members.
4. The artists' guild held regular exhibitions and events to showcase the work of its members.
5. The guilds in the Middle Ages played an important role in the development of trade and commerce.