noun
people who share an interest; kindred spirits
A somewhat literary or formal expression for people who share the same hobby, passion, or intellectual pursuit. Often used in contexts like clubs, societies, or gatherings of enthusiasts.
この会は同好の士が集まってできたものです。
This club was formed by people who share the same interest.
同好の士と語り合うのは楽しい。
It's enjoyable to talk with kindred spirits.
同志 means 'comrade' or 'like-minded person', often with a political or ideological nuance. 同好の士 is more about shared hobbies or cultural interests.
A compound of 同好 (same interest) + の (possessive particle) + 士 (person, gentleman). The exact historical origin is uncertain, but it follows a classical pattern for describing groups of people with a shared trait.