friendship

noun

friend·​ship ˈfren(d)-ˌship How to pronounce friendship (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In interviews, the two discussed their friendship, and the special included footage of them meeting for the first time in 2021. Brendan Morrow, USA TODAY, 17 Dec. 2024 This setting becomes a transformative playground, where children can leave behind their medical concerns and immerse themselves in fun and friendship. Stephan Pechdimaldji, Newsweek, 15 Dec. 2024 As truths unfold, their profound friendship offers transformation and awakens hope. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 15 Dec. 2024 Greenwood’s novel is a heartfelt tribute to the power of community and the need for compassion, friendship, and connection in all of our lives. Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for friendship 

Word History

Etymology

see friend entry 1

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of friendship was before the 12th century

Dictionary Entries Near friendship

Cite this Entry

“Friendship.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/friendship. Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

friendship

noun
friend·​ship ˈfren(d)-ˌship How to pronounce friendship (audio)
: the state of being friends

More from Merriam-Webster on friendship

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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