Another Word for Friend: 14 Synonyms with Examples
A friend is someone you know well and like, or a supporter of a cause. Swap it to show how close the friendship is, or to suit an informal tone.
As a noun: a person you like and know well
- companion
- pal
- mate
- buddy
- confidant
- comrade
- acquaintance
- best friend
As a noun: a supporter
- supporter
- ally
- backer
- patron
- well-wisher
- sponsor
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- companion
- Someone you spend time or travel with; slightly formal.
- pal
- Informal and friendly; a little old-fashioned.
- mate
- Common informal British word for a friend.
- confidant
- A friend you trust with secrets.
- acquaintance
- Someone you know, but not well; weaker than friend.
- ally
- Someone who supports you, especially in a struggle.
Example sentences
- companion: Her dog was her constant companion on long walks.
- pal: He went fishing with a couple of his old pals.
- mate: I'm going to the match with a few mates.
- confidant: Her sister was her closest confidant.
- acquaintance: He's more of an acquaintance than a friend.
- ally: The charity found a strong ally in the local MP.
Opposite of friend
- enemy
- foe
- rival
- stranger
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “friend”. Check the meaning before you use one.
noun: protagonist, champion, admirer, booster
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “friend”?
The most useful alternatives are “companion”, “pal”, “mate”, “buddy”, “confidant”. For the main sense (a person you like and know well), “companion” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “companion” and “pal”?
companion: Someone you spend time or travel with; slightly formal. pal: Informal and friendly; a little old-fashioned.
What is the opposite of “friend”?
Common antonyms are “enemy”, “foe”, “rival”, “stranger”.