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

After a moment of silence, hundreds of people embarked on a remembrance walk to Elm Grove Park, where tables were set up with cards to write messages to Mora and make friendship bracelets. —Shannon Tyler, Idaho Statesman, 16 Nov. 2025

Britney and Kim’s friendship dates back to the early 2000s. —Mitchell Peters, Billboard, 15 Nov. 2025

This book is an ode to their collaboration and friendship, and includes a foreword from Turner’s husband Erwin Bach. —Carly Tagen-Dye, PEOPLE, 15 Nov. 2025

That friendship led to a pop-up residency this summer, and now a permanent position as executive chef. —Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 14 Nov. 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