Fraternity Glossary

Bid - a formal invitation to join a particular fraternity chapter.

Brother - a term used by one chapter member to refer to other chapter members.

Chapter - a local group at an individual campus of a larger national fraternity, designated by a unique Greek name.

Coke Date - informal get-togethers between fraternity members and potential new members for recruitment purposes (i.e. dinners, athletic events, service events, etc.).

Formal Recruitment - the dates set aside in January for chapters to first offer bids to first year men.

Greek Week - a ten day period of competition amongst chapters and unity among the Greek Community in athletics, service, and leadership.

Initiation - the formal ceremony that marks the beginning of your membership to a chapter.

Interfraternity Council (IFC) - the governing body of the social fraternities at Miami University.

Legacy - the brother, son, or grandson of a fraternity member.

New Member / Pledge - a member of a fraternity who has not yet been initiated.

New Member Program / Pledging - time prior to initiation where new members learn the history, ideals, and values of fraternity life and their individual chapter.  The time frame is 6 to 8 weeks.

Open House - the potential new members are given a chance to see all of the participating chapters.

Social - a get-together with another Greek organization for a party, dinner, or special occasion.