philoí

Philoí, written in Greek as φίλοι, is the nominative plural form of the noun philos (φίλος), meaning “friends” or “loved ones.” In Ancient Greek, a philos denotes a companion, ally, or trusted associate, and philoí refers to a group of such individuals. The singular is philos, and the feminine form for a group of female friends is filai (φίλαι). The term is typically used for male or mixed groups, with gender and number reflected in the surrounding grammar.

Grammatically, philos is a second-declension masculine noun. The regular plural nominative is philoí (φίλοι); other common cases include the accusative φίλους and the genitive φιλίων. In context, philoí often designates close companions, members of a social circle, or political supporters, and can appear in personal address as “hoi philoi” (the friends).

In Classical Greek literature, philoí appears in narratives, dialogue, and philosophical writings to denote friendship, loyalty, or alliance. The broader concept of love or affinity embodied by friendship is central to Greek discussions of ethics and social bonds, and the related term philia (philia) appears in discussions of virtue, civic obligation, and interpersonal relationships. The prefix philo- in Greek, meaning “loving” or “fond of,” has given rise to many modern terms such as philosophy (philosophia), philanthropy, and philology.

See also: philosophy, philology, philanthropy.