befriend
UK: bɪˈfrend | US: bɪˈfrend
vt. to act as a friend to someone; to form a friendly relationship with someone
The word "befriend" combines the prefix "be-" (Old English "bī-", meaning "to make" or "to cause to be") with the noun "friend" (Old English "frēond," meaning "companion" or "loved one"). The prefix "be-" was often used in Old and Middle English to form transitive verbs, giving the sense of "making something happen" or "treating as." Over time, "befriend" evolved to specifically mean "to act as a friend" or "to establish a friendly connection." The logic is straightforward: "be-" + "friend" = "to make someone a friend."
She decided to befriend the new student in her class.
The kind neighbor made an effort to befriend the lonely elderly man.
It’s important to befriend people who share your values.
He was hesitant at first but eventually allowed himself to befriend his coworkers.
The program aims to help immigrants befriend locals and integrate into the community.