What is a synonym for the word friend?

companion, schoolmate, playmate, colleague, soul mate, buddy

buddy holly

acquaintance, ally, alter ego, associate, bosom buddy, buddy, chum*, classmate, cohort, colleague, companion*, compatriot, comrade, consort, cousin, crony, familiar, intimate, mate, pal, partner, playmate, roommate, schoolmate, sidekick, soul mate*, spare*, well-wisher,

According to Thesaurus.com.