internet friend
Digital-only acquaintance bond
An internet friend is someone you know primarily or exclusively through online interaction—social media, gaming, forums, or messaging—rather than in-person contact.
The relationship is real but mediated by screens: We've been internet friends for years but never met.
The term sometimes carries a slight qualifier, distinguishing these bonds from "real" friendships, though many consider the distinction outdated.
- onlineNetwork-connected state
- penpalLong-distance letter friend
- chatroomOnline discussion venue
- discordLack of agreement
- voice chatReal-time spoken communication online
group chat · gaming · avatar · username · screen name · DM · virtual · stranger · connection · screen · distance · long distance · timezone · meetup · real life · IRL · follower · mutual
- online relationshipse-pal, pen pal, online date, match, connection
- online usersnetizen, casual user, new user, follower, active user
- online datingdating apps, dating profile, dating profiles, online dating, OkCupid
internet friendschool friend
Companion from student days
childhood friend · work friend · college friend · gym buddy · neighbor
internet friendtrusted friend
Dependable close companion
family friend · friend of the family · old friend · true friend · lifelong friend
internet, friend, inter, netted, netting, network, networking, friends, friendly