friend

friend · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.

  2. 2.

    A person who supports a cause or organization.

  3. 3.

    A person who is not an enemy; an ally.

  4. 4.

    (On social media) A contact on one's account.

  5. 5.

    (Informal, especially on social media) To add as a friend.

Forms

plural: friends

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    best friend — One's closest friend.
  • •
    a friend in need is a friend indeed — A true friend helps in difficult times.
  • •
    make friends — To establish friendships.
  • •
    fair-weather friend — Someone who is only friendly when things are good.
  • •
    man's best friend — A dog.
  • •
    with friends like these — Expressing disappointment in friends.
  • •
    be friends with — To have a friendship with.

Related words

Antonyms: enemy, foe
See also: acquaintance, companion, enemy, friendship
Synonyms: buddy, companion, mate, pal

Etymology

From Old English frēond ("friend, lover, relative"), originally the present participle of frēon ("to love"), from Proto-Germanic frijōndz ("loving").