Guĭld, n.
(gĭld), n. [A-S. gild, gield, geld, tribute, a society or company where payment was made for its charge and support, from A-S. gildan, geldan, to pay; L. & H. Ger. gilde, D. gild, L. Lat. gelda; Goth. gild, tribute, Icel. gildi, value, worth.]
Sense 1. An association of men belonging to the same class, or engaged in kindred pursuits, formed for mutual aid and protection; a business fraternity; as, the Stationers' Guild; the Ironmongers' Guild. They were originally licensed by the government, and endowed with special privileges and authority.
Sense 2. A guildhall. [Obs.] Spenser.