Befriend

To become a friend to someone; to act as a friend towards someone. This involves cultivating a relationship based on mutual affection, trust, support, and understanding. Befriending entails offering companionship, showing kindness, offering aid, and generally nurturing a positive and supportive connection. It implies a conscious effort to build and maintain a relationship. This often includes spending time together, sharing experiences, and offering emotional support. It can occur in various contexts, from forming bonds with newcomers to offering solace during difficult times. The goal of befriending is typically to create a positive social connection and cultivate feelings of belonging.

Befriend meaning with examples

• The new student seemed shy and withdrawn, so Sarah decided to Befriend her, inviting her to lunch and introducing her to other classmates. This act helped the new student feel welcomed and eased her transition to a new school environment, creating a space where she felt comfortable.
• Lost and alone, the elderly woman at the community center, benefited from the volunteers who Befriend her and provide social interaction. Regularly chatting with the volunteers gave her much needed companionship and support, reducing her feelings of isolation and improving her overall well-being.
• The rescue organization specializes in Befriend injured animals, often taking in abandoned cats or dogs. They provide medical care, emotional support, and a safe environment. Through this process, the organization hopes to make the animal confident enough to later place the animals with kind families.
• During their travels, the couple made it a point to Befriend locals, learning about their cultures and customs. This opened up opportunities for cultural exchange, building respect, and enhancing their overall travel experience by gaining authentic insights beyond typical tourist paths.