Companionship

/kəmˈpænjənʃɪp/ noun

Definition

The pleasant feeling of having a friend or someone you enjoy spending time with, without necessarily anything romantic involved.

Etymology

From Old French 'compain' (friend), from Latin 'companis' meaning 'one who breaks bread with you' (literally 'com-' with and 'panis' bread). The '-ship' suffix denotes a state or relationship.

Kelly Says

Humans are so deeply social that loneliness literally shortens your lifespan—studies show that social isolation is as harmful as smoking or obesity, which is why companion animals have become medical interventions in hospitals and nursing homes.

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