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

“Heated Rivalry” stans applauded the actor’s good-natured handling of the situation and flipped over the unannounced but entirely expected appearances by his co-star and best friend, Hudson Williams.

From Salon

"We were like sisters and best friends," she said.

From BBC

He told a story of how one of his best friends from Wales was happy with being competitive for 74 minutes in the 26-23 defeat against Scotland.

From BBC

Well, I went from Paris to my best friend’s wedding, and then I flew home to New York to do a pit stop at my apartment.

From Los Angeles Times

Between a family background that’s a bit of a blank and a best friend who’s always been the brightest star in the constellation of our friendship, I’m not sure I’ve ever really known.

From Literature