neighborly

adjective

neigh·​bor·​ly ˈnā-bər-lē 

: of, relating to, or characteristic of congenial neighbors

especially : friendly

a neighborly welcome

neighborliness noun

Synonyms of neighborly

• warm
• friendly
• gracious

Choose the Right Synonym for neighborly

amicable, neighborly, friendly mean exhibiting goodwill and an absence of antagonism.

amicable implies a state of peace and a desire on the part of the parties not to quarrel.

maintained amicable relations

neighborly implies a disposition to live on good terms with others and to be helpful on principle.

neighborly concern

friendly stresses cordiality and often warmth or intimacy of personal relations.

sought friendly advice

Examples of neighborly in a Sentence

She was friendly in a neighborly way.

they were neighborly folks, always ready to lend a helping hand whenever necessary

Recent Examples on the Web

That’s the neighborly thing to do. — Rancho Santa Fe Review, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 May 2026

Her dearest friends were some neighborly coconut crabs. — Kinsey Jasnoch, New Yorker, 28 May 2026

Act swiftly, stick to the facts, and keep conversations neighborly. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 2026

Bright security lights, smoky fire pits, and dying trees can disrupt the peace and should be managed with neighborly care. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1558, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

neighborly

adjective

neigh·​bor·​ly ˈnā-bər-lē 

: of, relating to, or characteristic of neighbors

especially : friendly

a neighborly welcome

neighborliness noun