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

There’s just something about this charming friendship that’s wildly heartwarming and authentic. —Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 28 Mar. 2025

LeBron James is getting candid about his friendship with Kobe Bryant. —Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 27 Mar. 2025

Instead, the show offers more than a few laugh-out-loud moments, a new portrayal of golden-age friendships and some genuinely delightful guest stars. —Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 27 Mar. 2025

This movie just felt different, though, in exploring the intimacy of a friendship and the loss of that friendship, versus romantic love. —Tomris Laffly, IndieWire, 27 Mar. 2025

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