An imaginary friend is a type of companion often created by children, typically around the age of 3-7 years old. It is someone who only exists in their imagination and serves as a source of comfort or entertainment for them. Imaginary friends can take on various forms such as animals, cartoon characters, or even human figures that the child has invented. They are often used by children to cope with loneliness, anxiety, or stressful situations. While imaginary friends are typically associated with young children, some people report having them well into adulthood.