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

While promoting her Apple TV+ series Smoke at the Tribeca Festival in New York City, the actress, 44, told PEOPLE about her friendship with Anna Camp that blossomed while filming their new comedy Bride Hard. —Raven Brunner, People.com, 20 June 2025

Earlier this week, SZA opened up to Chappell Roan about her friendship with Lizzo during a conversation for Interview Magazine. —Stephen Daw, Billboard, 20 June 2025

Because the show really is about friendship, unconditional friendship between these four and then five girls. —Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 20 June 2025

Yet throughout their friendship, Millar has shared insight on his path, including detours into Switzerland and the pros and cons of various loan deals. —Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 19 June 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