1. (n.) One who entertains for another such sentiments of esteem, respect, and affection that he seeks his society aud welfare; a well-wisher; an intimate associate; sometimes, an attendant.

2. (n.) One not inimical or hostile; one not a foe or enemy; also, one of the same nation, party, kin, etc., whose friendly feelings may be assumed. The word is some times used as a term of friendly address.

3. (n.) One who looks propitiously on a cause, an institution, a project, and the like; a favorer; a promoter; as, a friend to commerce, to poetry, to an institution.

4. (n.) One of a religious sect characterized by disuse of outward rites and an ordained ministry, by simplicity of dress and speech, and esp. by opposition to war and a desire to live at peace with all men. They are popularly called Quakers.

5. (n.) A paramour of either sex.

6. (v. t.) To act as the friend of; to favor; to countenance; to befriend.

Maecenas acquaintance adherent advocate ally alter ego amigo angel associate baby backer beau bedfellow benefactor best friend bird boon companion bosom buddy bosom friend boyfriend chum co-worker cocker cohort colleague compatriot compeer comrade concubine confederate confidant confidante confrere consociate crony doxy escort familiar fellow financier girl intimate investor lover man mate mistress moll pal partner patron playmate roomie soul mate squeeze supporter sweetheart twist woman