Friendship Definition: Meaning, Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：close relationship (friendship)

friendship 🔊

/ˈfrendʃɪp/

The good relationship between people who like, trust, and enjoy being with each other.

Friendship scene: two friends laughing on park bench sharing snack

close relationship 🔊

➕

/kloʊs rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪp/

The state of having a mutual relationship based on affection, trust, and support between people.

📁 Category：Social Roles 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Old English 'frēondscipe': friend + -ship (state or condition).

💡 Mnemonic

A friend is a ship that carries you through stormy seas.

📖 Example

Their friendship began when they were neighbors, and they still meet every weekend for coffee. 🔊 Their friendship originated when they were neighbors, and they continue to see each other every weekend for coffee.

🔗 Collocations

strike up a friendship – to begin a friendship

close friendship – a strong and intimate friendship

test of friendship – a situation that challenges the strength of a friendship

🔄 Synonyms

companionship (n.) – The feeling of fellowship or togetherness with another person.

camaraderie (n.) – Mutual trust and friendship among people who spend time together.

fellowship (n.) – A friendly association, especially with people who share common interests or activities.

🚫 Antonyms

enmity (n.) – The state of being actively opposed or hostile to someone.

hostility (n.) – Unfriendliness or opposition in thought or action.

animosity (n.) – Strong hostility or dislike.

🌱 Derivatives

friendly (adj.) – Kind and pleasant; showing friendship.

friendliness (n.) – The quality of being friendly.

friendless (adj.) – Having no friends.

📖 Cultural Story

Originating from Old English 'frēondscipe', the concept of friendship has been central to human society, often celebrated in literature and philosophy.