Friend

/frend/

nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A person one knows and likes, and with whom one shares a bond of mutual affection.

/frend/

nounpositiveBeginner
General

A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, typically exclusive of sexual or family relations.

My best friend and I go to the park every Saturday.

💡 Simply: A friend is someone you like to hang out with and who likes you back. They're the people you'd call to go to the movies or share a secret with. It's like having a partner in fun and adventures!

👶 For kids: A friend is someone you like and who likes you too! You play together and have fun.

More Examples

2

It's important to be a good friend.

3

I made a new friend in class today.

How It's Used

Social

"She introduced me to her friend at the party."

Personal Relationships

"They have been best friends since childhood."

2

To add someone as a friend on social media or an online platform.

/frend/

verbneutralmedium
General

To become friends with someone.

I friended him on Instagram.

💡 Simply: To 'friend' someone is like saying, 'Hey, let's connect!' on a social media site. It's like asking them to be part of your online circle.

👶 For kids: To friend someone means you ask them to be your friend on the computer or phone.

More Examples

2

She decided to friend everyone who liked her page.

How It's Used

Social Media

"I friended her on Facebook."

Tip:Think of adding someone to your social media contact list.

Idioms & expressions

make friends

To begin to have a friendly relationship with someone or people.

"It can be challenging to make friends when you move to a new school."

a friend in need is a friend indeed

A true friend is someone who helps you when you are in trouble.

"When I was going through a tough time, my friend helped me out. A friend in need is a friend indeed."

best friend

Your closest friend

"My best friend and I do everything together."

From Old English *frēond*, from Proto-Germanic **frijōndz*, meaning 'lover' or 'one who loves'. Ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *priH-, meaning 'to love'.

The word 'friend' has been used for centuries, reflecting the importance of social connections throughout history.

Memory tip

Think of someone you enjoy spending time with and confide in.

freindfrendfrind

Usage

70%Spoken
30%Written