As a linguistic expert with a deep interest in the etymology of words, I find the journey of words from their roots to their modern usage to be a fascinating subject. The word "friends" is no exception. To understand its origin, we must delve into the annals of linguistic history, tracing the evolution of the term through various languages and cultural contexts.

The etymology of "friends" is rooted in the ancient Germanic languages, specifically Old English. The Old English term "freond" is the direct ancestor of the modern English word "friend." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*frijāndz," which itself is a combination of the prefix "*fr-" and the noun "*-jandz," meaning "one who is dear or loved."

The prefix "*fr-" is a common element in Germanic languages, often expressing a sense of closeness or intimacy. For instance, in Old Norse, "frændr" means "relative," and in Old High German, "vriunt" also refers to a relative or friend. This sense of close familial or friendly ties is a key aspect of the word's meaning.

The noun "*-jandz" is related to the verb "to love" or "to be dear," which is a common theme in the formation of words for friends and kinship across languages. It's a testament to the universal human experience of forming close bonds with others.

The Old English "freond" was used in a variety of contexts, not just to denote a friend but also an ally or a lover. It was a term that encompassed a broad spectrum of positive relationships. Over time, the word has become more specific in its usage, but the essence of closeness and affection remains.

It's interesting to note the historical context in which the word evolved. The societal structures and values of the time greatly influenced the development of language. For example, the concept of friendship in medieval times was often tied to feudal relationships, where loyalty and mutual support were paramount.

The word "friends" also has a rich religious and philosophical history. As you mentioned, the term "a Quaker," a member of the Society of Friends, dates back to the 1670s. This religious group, known for their emphasis on equality and pacifism, chose the name to reflect their belief in the 'Inner Light' that exists in every individual, fostering a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood among its members.

In contrast, the Old English word "feond," meaning "fiend" or "enemy," is etymologically unrelated to "freond," despite the alliterative pairing in literature. This illustrates the complex and sometimes counterintuitive nature of language evolution.

In summary, the word "friends" has a rich and complex etymology, with roots in the Proto-Germanic languages and a history that reflects the social, cultural, and religious contexts of its time. It's a word that has evolved to convey a sense of intimacy and affection, encapsulating the human desire for close relationships.

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Meaning "a Quaker" (a member of the Society of Friends) is from 1670s. Feond ("fiend," originally "enemy") and freond often were paired alliteratively in Old English; both are masculine agent nouns derived from present participle of verbs, but are not directly related to one another (see fiend). Related: Friends.read more >>