Mutual friend Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A person who is acquainted with and has a friendly relationship with both individuals or groups, serving as a bond between them.

Examples

• The mutual friend helped organize the party and facilitated communication between the two groups.
• Mutual friends often act as mediators in disputes, using their relationships to resolve conflicts.

Synonyms

• Friend
• Acquaintance
• Confidant

Etymology

The term “mutual friend” can be traced back to the Late Latin phrase “mutuus amicus,” meaning “mutual friend” or “common acquaintance.”

Usage Notes

When referencing a mutual friend, it’s essential to ensure that the person is aware that they are being considered a mediator or facilitator in the relationship.

Cultural References

In popular culture, mutual friends are often depicted as mediators or confidants in films, literature, and television shows, highlighting their role in facilitating relationships and resolving conflicts.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

A phrase such as “Let’s catch up with our mutual friend” or “The mutual friend helped us resolve our differences” demonstrates how the term can be used in everyday language.

Related Words or Phrases

Words like “friend,” “acquaintance,” and “confidant” are closely related to “mutual friend” and often share similar meanings or connotations.

Collocations

Common collocations with “mutual friend” include phrases such as “helped facilitate,” “served as a bridge,” or “acted as a bond between.”

Frequency of Use

The term “mutual friend” is relatively uncommon in modern language, but it can be used effectively in specific contexts to emphasize the role of a mediator or facilitator.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of “mutual friend” include “mutul friend” or “mutuel friend.”