Origin: Germanic Old English suffix
Fellowship has 5 different meanings across 1 category:
an association of people who share common beliefs or activities
"the message was addressed not just to employees but to every member of the company family"
"the church welcomed new members into its fellowship"
the state of being with someone
"he missed their company"
"he enjoyed the society of his friends"
money granted (by a university or foundation or other agency) for advanced study or research
"After graduating from college, she applied for a prestigious fellowship to fund her doctoral research in quantum physics."
A company of people that share the same interest or aim.
"The university organized a fellowship for all students dedicated to renewable energy research."
In plain English: Fellowship is the feeling of close friendship and shared purpose among people who work together toward common goals.
"The new club was founded on a spirit of fellowship among its members."
Usage: Use "fellowship" as a noun to describe a group sharing common interests, such as academic programs or religious communities, rather than using it for general friendship which is better expressed by "companionship." Avoid confusing this collective sense with the verb form of fellowship, which specifically means admitting someone into that shared community.
To admit to fellowship, enter into fellowship with; to make feel welcome by showing friendship or building a cordial relationship. Now only in religious use.
"The elder extended his hand to the new convert, signifying that he was welcomed into their spiritual fellowship."
In plain English: To fellowship means to join with others for shared support and activities, though this usage is rare today since people usually just say they are friends or teammates instead.
"The club decided to fellowship with other organizations in need during their annual outreach event."
The word fellowship comes from Middle English fellow + -ship or possibly adapted from the Old Norse félagskapr, meaning "companionship." It entered English to describe a state of being together with others.