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

This film is the story of Tony and Emma – a friendship which unfolds unexpectedly. — Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 20 July 2026

Speaking to People in 2024, Garten raved about her friendship with Garner. — Hannah Malach, InStyle, 20 July 2026

Such recognition is a form of affinity; a bit like falling into friendship. — Literary Hub, 20 July 2026

The program not only examines the surprising incident but also the collapse of the friendship between Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara, his interpreter and the person who used the pitcher’s money to cover gambling debts. — Brian Steinberg, Variety, 20 July 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