\Guild\, n. [OE. gilds, AS. gild, gield, geld, tribute, a
society or company where payment was made for its charge and
support, fr. AS. gildan, gieldan, to pay. See {Yield}, v. t.]
1. An association of men belonging to the same class, or
   engaged in kindred pursuits, formed for mutual aid and
   protection; a business fraternity or corporation; as, the
   Stationers' Guild; the Ironmongers' Guild. They were
   originally licensed by the government, and endowed with
   special privileges and authority.
2. A guildhall. [Obs.] --Spenser.
3. A religious association or society, organized for
   charitable purposes or for assistance in parish work.