what is a phratry definition
phraÂ·try. n. pl. phraÂ·tries. 1. A kinship group constituting an intermediate division in the primitive structure of the Hellenic tribe or phyle, consisting of several patrilinear clans, and surviving in classical times as a territorial subdivision in the political and military organization of the Athenian state.2.. a grouping of clans or other social units within a tribe. 2. (in ancient Greece) a social group, based on real or fictional kinship, with corporate laws and a set of tutelary deities. phrÄtria = phrÄtrÃ­a-, phrÄtr. s of phrÄtá¸r (clansman akin to) + -brother-ia y ]. 3