Hi! In the process of writing my novel, I was currently stuck at a point in which I’m trying to find a word in english or really any language that could be translated to mean both friend and/or family. I’ve personally always been a fan of found families and the principles of the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.

For context, one character would have no family while another is essentially a bit of a boujee brat escaping what society would deem a picture perfect family when in reality it is a living hell. Upon eventually uniting as children and having a powerful relationship, these characters grow up struggling as one is desperate to have family and the other desperate for a true friend where family failed them until they meet the father figure character who introduces them to a new word, in this world it would be a concept long forgotten by society yet still thriving in the world that the public does not see. Friends and family would not have to be one or the other, as family is not bound by blood and friendships should not limit the love you have for the people in your life.

I’m quite sleepy writing this, but I would love to hear someone or anyone share a word for this particular instance or any interesting words from their native language they just feel like sharing :) especially of south asian descent!!

Thank you!