ALLI'ANCE, n. [Gr.; L.] 1. The relation or union between families, contracted by marriage.2. The union between nations, contracted by compact, treaty or league.3. The treaty, league, or compact, which is the instrument of confederacy; sometimes perhaps the act of confederating.4. Any union or connection of interests between persons, families, states or corporations; as, an alliance between church and state.5. The persons or parties allied; as, men or states may secure any alliances in their power.
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