Friendship

ˈfrendʃɪp

nounBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

1

A state of being friends; a relationship of mutual affection between people.

ˈfrendʃɪp

nounpositiveBeginner
General

A relationship of mutual affection between people.

Their childhood friendship lasted a lifetime.

💡 Simply: Friendship is like having a buddy who likes you and whom you like too! You share secrets, play together, and help each other out. It’s when you have someone you can trust and enjoy spending time with.

👶 For kids: Being friends, like when you like someone and they like you back!

More Examples

2

The bond of friendship strengthened over the years.

3

We value the support and camaraderie found in true friendship.

How It's Used

Social

"Friendship is a valuable connection in all cultures."

Literature

"The novel explored the complexities of a lifelong friendship."

Idioms & expressions

to strike up a friendship

To begin a friendship with someone.

"After working together on the project, they struck up a friendship."

fair-weather friend

A person who is a friend only when things are going well.

"Don't count on him; he's just a fair-weather friend."

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."

From Old English frēond (friend) + -ship (a state or condition). The suffix '-ship' indicates a state or condition.

The concept of friendship has existed since ancient times, documented in philosophical works and literature across various cultures, evolving with societal norms and values.

Memory tip

Think of two friends shaking hands, symbolizing their strong connection.

Word Origin

Suffix: -ship

friendshipefriendshipsfriendsship

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written