Meaning of the word "building society" in English

What does "building society" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

building society

US /ˈbɪl.dɪŋ səˌsaɪ.ə.t̬i/
UK /ˈbɪl.dɪŋ səˌsaɪ.ə.ti/
"building society" picture

Noun

a financial organization which pays interest on investments of its members and lends money for the purchase or renovation of houses

Example:
We decided to take out a mortgage with a local building society.
Many building societies have converted into banks in recent years.