Definition of Friend
Quick Meaning of Friend
A person you know well and like; someone you enjoy spending time with.
Detailed Definition of Friend
A person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, not sexual or familial.
How to Pronounce Friend
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: The vowel sounds like 'e' in 'dress'; rhymes with 'lend' and 'spend'.
Watch out: Some learners pronounce it /ˈfraɪnd/ with a long 'i' sound, but it uses the short 'e' vowel.
Origin and Etymology of Friend
From Old English freond (lover, friend), related to 'free'.
How to Use Friend in a Sentence
Each example shows “friend” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“My best friend and I have known each other since childhood.”
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“I made a new friend in my English class last week.”
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“Good friends support each other through difficult times.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Friend
Common Synonyms for Friend
Smart Synonyms for Friend — When to Use Each
- buddy
- when describing a close friend in informal or
- companion
- when referring to someone who accompanies or spends
Antonyms of Friend
Common Collocations with Friend
These phrases pair with “friend” in everyday English:
- best friend
- good friend
- close friend
- childhood friend
- make a friend
Common Mistakes When Using Friend
Even fluent speakers slip up with “friend”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She is my very good friend.
- ✓ Correct: She is my close friend or a very good friend of mine.
- Why: The phrase is 'a very good friend' (with article) or 'close friend'; 'very good friend' without an article sounds awkward.
- ✗ Wrong: I have two close friends in my school.
- ✓ Correct: I have two close friends at my school.
- Why: Use 'at' (location where something happens) rather than 'in' for specific institutions like school.
Words Confused With Friend
- Friend vs Fiend: Fiend (evil person) sounds similar but is spelled differently and means something negative.
Other Forms of Friend
- Noun: friend
- Adjective: friendly
- Adverb: in a friendly manner
Frequently Asked Questions About Friend
What is the meaning of "Friend"?
A person you know well and like; someone you enjoy spending time with.
How do you pronounce "Friend"?
The IPA is /frɛnd/. The vowel sounds like 'e' in 'dress'; rhymes with 'lend' and 'spend'.
What part of speech is "Friend"?
"Friend" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Friend"?
Common synonyms include mate, companion, buddy.
How do you use "Friend" in a sentence?
For example: "My best friend and I have known each other since childhood."