a friend in need is a friend indeed UK /ə ˌfɹɛnd ɪn ˈniːd ɪz ə ˌfɹɛnd ɪnˈdiːd/US /ə ˌfɹɛnd ən ˈnid ɪz ə ˌfɹɛnd ɪnˈdid/ saying2 •If a friend helps one when one is in need, that person is a true friend.A friend in need is a friend indeed, Een vrient in noot / is een vrient in der daet. — 1658 •If a friend is in need of help, it is beneficial and wise to help them.