mates
Translation
friends, buddies, partners, colleagues
Examples
He went to the pub with his mates.
He went to the pub with his mates.
The birds build a nest for their mates.
The birds build a nest for their mates.
The sailors and their mates worked on the ship.
The sailors and their mates worked on the ship.
Grammar Patterns
((sb.'s)) mates someone's friends He went out with his mates.
Similar Words
Synonyms: friends, buddies, pals, companions
Etymology
From Middle Low German 'mate' meaning 'comrade'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'checkmate' in chess, where the king's 'mate' (partner) is trapped. Or think of a 'roommate', a person you share a room with.