adjective

friendly

Kind, welcoming, or behaving like a friend.

Our new neighbor gives us a friendly wave every morning.

Etymology

The adjective ending expresses the character of its base noun. Friendly therefore means behaving as a friend would, with goodwill and welcome.

More examples

  • The staff is friendly and happy to answer questions.
  • Your dog seems friendlier once he gets to know someone.
  • Even when we disagree, we keep our conversations friendly.

Forms

friendly · friendlier · friendliest

friendliness noun — The quality of being kind and welcoming.

Similar words

welcoming
Emphasizes making someone feel accepted and comfortable on arrival.
amiable
Describes a pleasant, good-natured personality rather than a particular gesture.
cordial
Suggests polite warmth, often in more formal interactions.