friend
/frend/A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, typically one outside one's immediate family.
She is my closest friend.
He has been a loyal friend for many years.
The term can also be used to describe a person who is supportive or helpful, even if not emotionally close.
A person who is not an enemy or adversary; an ally.
The two countries have been friends for decades.
He treated me like a friend, even though we had just met.
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💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Usage
While 'friend' is generally informal, it can be used in formal contexts to describe allies or supportive relationships.
⚡Gold Rule
Plural Form
The plural of 'friend' is 'friends,' not 'friend's' (which would imply possession).
📖Word Origin
From Middle English *frend*, from Old English *frēond*, from Proto-Germanic *frijōndz*, from Proto-Indo-European *prī- (to love).
📝Usage Notes
The word 'friend' can be used both as a noun and a verb (e.g., 'to friend someone on social media'). The plural form is 'friends.'