The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word WINGMAN
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More clues leading to the result WINGMAN
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Friend" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case friend = wingman.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does WINGMAN mean?
WINGMAN noun- A pilot partner of another, a pilot who flies in the same wing or squadron.
- (by extension) a friend who accompanies one to offer (or receive) support, especially in flirting with love interests