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 of friendship

• generosity
• brotherhood
• amity
• cordiality
• goodwill
• friendliness
• neighborliness
• kindness
• good-fellowship
• benevolence
• fellowship
• kindliness
• community
• companionship

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

Lyubov Campion, who had known Beloozerov since the late 2000s and largely communicated with him by email, said most of Beloozerov’s friendships were online. — Isabelle Chapman, CNN Money, 10 Aug. 2026

However, today a commitment to a friendship or a group might create confusion for you. — Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 10 Aug. 2026

As rehearsals descend into comic mayhem, and with the future of Willow Lodge at risk, Aubrey is forced to confront his own grief and rediscover the unexpected magic of friendship, community and Christmas cheer. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 10 Aug. 2026

Sometimes his friends would even dare him to tell a joke about buffalo wings, the kind of dares that can only be conceived by years of friendship. — Anthony Solorzano, Los Angeles Times, 10 Aug. 2026

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