mates

/meɪts/
verb
  1. To come together as a pair to produce offspring; to breed.
    • The lions mate during the dry season.
    • These two dogs mated and had a litter of puppies.
    • Scientists observed the birds mating in the spring.
  2. To join or fit together as a pair.
    • The gears mate with each other to transfer motion.
    • The two pieces of the puzzle mate perfectly.
    • The carpenter mated the boards with precision.
Synonyms
noun
  1. Friends or companions; people you spend time with or have a close relationship with.
    • She's one of my oldest mates; we've known each other since childhood.
    • My mates and I play soccer every Saturday.
    • He went to the movies with his mates from school.
  2. A partner in a marriage, romantic relationship, or a pair of animals that breed together.
    • The zookeepers introduced a new female to be the male gorilla's mate.
    • Birds often choose a mate and stay together for life.
    • He is looking for a mate to share his adventures.
  3. A coworker or someone you work with, especially in a skilled trade or on a ship.
    • The ship's mate gave orders to the crew.
    • The plumber brought his mate to help with the repair.
    • My work mate and I always take lunch together.
Antonyms