The German word "Freund" is a noun with multiple meanings, depending on the context. It can refer to a male friend or a boyfriend, while "Freundin" refers to a female friend or girlfriend. However, the meaning is usually clear from the context.

 

For example:

 

"Sie hat seit 3 Monaten einen Freund." (She has had a boyfriend for 3 months.)

"Mein Freund und ich haben uns vor einem Jahr kennengelernt." (My boyfriend and I met a year ago.)

 

If a man has a female friend in a non-romantic sense, he can say:

 

"Sie ist eine Freundin von mir." (She is a friend of mine.)

 

To avoid confusion in the rare case that someone has multiple girlfriends, it's best to use the word "befreundet" (to be friends with).

 

"Ich bin mit ihr befreundet." (I am friends with her.)