Doshlar

Doshlar is a plural noun in Uzbek that refers to close friends or companions. It is used to describe one's social circle, such as classmates, teammates, or longtime friends, and appears frequently in casual conversation, literature, and media to express camaraderie.

Etymology and forms: The word derives from dost, meaning friend, which is found in many Turkic and Persianate languages. In Uzbek, the plural suffix -lar forms "dostlar" or the variant "doshlar." The spelling with "sh" is common in some dialects or orthographic traditions, but both forms denote the same concept.

Usage and social significance: Doshlar denotes a stable, trusted group whose members share activities, support one another, and influence each other’s lives. The concept emphasizes loyalty and mutual aid and plays a central role in social life across schools, workplaces, neighborhoods, and communities.

Examples in culture: The term appears in songs, films, and literature as a symbol of friendship and collective identity. Possessive forms include doshlari or doshtlarim, meaning "my friends" depending on spelling, and the context typically clarifies the intended variant.