best friend

American  

[best frend] / ˈbɛst ˈfrɛnd /

noun

1. a person’s closest or most cherished friend.

   Sheila has been my best friend since we were seven.

   Synonyms:

   bosom friend, bosom buddy, bff, bf, bestie

2. something that a person particularly depends on or has a special affection for.

   A purple, stuffed armadillo was my best friend and companion through my whole childhood.

3. something considered or suggested to be particularly useful or valuable.

   When it comes to saving for retirement, compound interest is your new best friend.

   Your local piano tuner could be your best friend when buying a piano.

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Etymology

Origin of best friend

First recorded before 1000

Example Sentences

A team of overachievers filled with a roster of best friends combined chemistry, determination and toughness to overcome all odds.

From Los Angeles Times

After sharing the news with my best friend about my romance with Allen, she burst my bubble: “You’re in a situationship.”

From Los Angeles Times

In recent years, man’s best friend has plummeted from a 10 to a 2.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Imagine if you're nervous about making a best man or a groom speech in front of 300 of your best friends," said Alex.

From BBC

Instead, that moment belonged to her best friend, Daisy Hope, who carried the baby for her after a promise made when they were teenagers.

From BBC