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

So many relationships and friendships are because of him. —Tobias Bass, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2026

Agnes begins to question the people around her, in large part due to her burgeoning friendship with Daisy. —Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 5 Mar. 2026

Gomez gave real, specific context about what makes that song so meaningful to their friendship. —Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 5 Mar. 2026

Season 2 storylines celebrate curiosity, friendship, kindness, teamwork, and appreciating the unique gifts and talents that make each person special. —Sarah Scott, Parents, 5 Mar. 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