companionship
UK: kəmˈpænjənʃɪp | US: kəmˈpænjənʃɪp
n. the state of being companions; a feeling of fellowship or friendship.
companionship = companion<associate> + ship<state of being>
- companion: From Old French compaignon (one who shares bread), derived from Latin com- (together) + panis (bread). Originally denoted someone you shared meals with, later generalized to a close associate.
- ship: A noun-forming suffix from Old English -scipe, indicating a state, condition, or quality (e.g., friendship, leadership).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the idea of "breaking bread together." In medieval Latin, companio referred to someone who shared meals, reflecting the deep social bond formed over food. Over time, "companion" expanded to mean any close associate, and the suffix "-ship" was added to abstract the concept into a state of mutual connection.
Their long-term companionship was built on trust and shared experiences.
She valued the companionship of her dog during lonely evenings.
The trip was enjoyable thanks to the companionship of good friends.
Online communities provide virtual companionship for many people.
His letters offered her comfort and a sense of companionship.