friendship

noun

friend·​ship ˈfren(d)-ˌship 

1

: the state of being friends

they have a long-standing friendship

2

: the quality or state of being friendly : friendliness

the friendship shown him by his coworkers

3

obsolete : aid

Synonyms

• amity
• benevolence
• brotherhood
• charity
• cordiality
• cordialness
• fellowship
• friendliness
• gemütlichkeit
• good-fellowship
• goodwill
• kindliness
• neighborliness

Examples of friendship in a Sentence

a friendship between two countries

They have enjoyed many years of friendship.

He was encouraged by the friendship his coworkers showed him.

Recent Examples on the Web

In it, Elphaba and Galinda profess their undying friendship; suffice it to say that Grande found the notion of treating her co-star with violent hostility an acting challenge. —Daniel D'addario, Variety, 2 Jan. 2025

As Mars retrogrades back into Cancer on Jan. 6, your 11th house of friendships and social causes lights up. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Jan. 2025

The Cancer Full Moon on the 13th highlights your need for friendships and community. —Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Jan. 2025

But Ross balances those with moments of sheer beauty – the look of unconditional love from a grandmother (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor), an unexpected friendship that buds, blossoms and then goes on to haunt one of boys forever. —Randy Myers, The Mercury News, 31 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see friend entry 1

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing friendship

• betray someone's friendship

Kids Definition

friendship

noun

friend·​ship ˈfren(d)-ˌship 

: the state of being friends