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

As the flame travels, the relay is meant to spread excitement and promote the Olympic ideals of peace, friendship and unity ahead of the opening ceremony. —Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2025

Soon empathy and friendship followed. —Marvin Hurst, CBS News, 6 Dec. 2025

Because of friendships and politics, there is no way the selection committee will not invite a team from the Group of Five conferences and the ACC to their little playoff invitational. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Dec. 2025

Through different life paths, from Roth’s career in producing and writing to Meghan’s transition to Hollywood, royal life and now Montecito, the friendship has stayed rooted in the same foundation. —Erin Hill, PEOPLE, 5 Dec. 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