noun

a close friend or companion.

he went gambling with his cronies

friend,best friend,companion,boon companion,intimate,familiar,confidant(e),alter ego,second self,comrade,associate,confederate,compatriot,colleague,workmate,co-worker,pal,chum,bosom chum,buddy,bosom buddy,spar,cully,oppo,main man,mate,china,mucker,butty,bezzie,marrow,marrer,marra,amigo,compadre,paisan,bro,homeboy,homegirl,gabba,offsider,compeer,fidus Achates,consociate