In "The Handmaid's Tale," the term "fraternize" is explored, meaning to act in a brotherly manner. The character Luke points out that there is no direct counterpart for this behavior associated with sisters, prompting the suggestion of the word "sororize," derived from Latin. This highlights a linguistic disparity in how society recognizes and labels relationships between genders.

This conversation reflects broader themes in the narrative, particularly the distinctions and roles of men and women in society. The absence of a feminine equivalent for camaraderie emphasizes the unequal recognition of sisterhood compared to brotherhood, serving as a critique of gender dynamics within the story.