The term "friend" is often thrown around pretty loosely, but how can you tell which friends are genuine? I have found that there are nine true characteristics of a genuine friend. If you know someone with all or most of these attributes in your life, let them know how much you appreciate them and how much they mean to you. A genuine friend is a rare find, be sure not to lose them.

1. Good Listener

Whether it's about your latest crush or your obnoxious younger sister, they listen. They might not care themselves, but they listen because they care about you.

2. Dependable

If they make plans with you, you can bet money that they are going to do everything in their power to follow through with them. Not to mention they actually make plans with you, you aren't the only one asking to hang out.

3. Not afraid of disagreeing with you

If you are doing something they know isn't right for you, they aren't afraid to speak up and tell you. Whether it's at the mall trying on clothes or talking about getting back with a crappy ex, you can always expect honesty from them.

4. Lifts you up and motivates you

They push you to work harder, be better and go for it. They truly want you to be the best that you can be and aren't afraid to make you work for it. But, they also remind you of how awesome you already are.

5. Proud of your accomplishments

They are clapping when you're winning. There is no jealousy or spite in them when you receive an A on an exam, score the winning goal or get that promotion. They are proud of you.

6. There when you need them

When you really need them. Sure, they'll be there when you're upset and need ice cream or a shot, but when you really need them in the middle of the night when you've run out of gas in the middle of the road, they're going to be there. When a family member dies, they'll be there for you. When it truly matters you can expect them to be there, or be on their way.

7. Someone you're comfortable being yourself around

You don't have to pretend to be someone you're not around them. There are no masks and no hiding. You are completely comfortable being goofy and weird around them without fear of judgement.

8. Trustworthy

You can tell them something private or personal without having to worry about everyone at work or school talking about it the next day. When they tell you something, you can trust that it's the truth. They don't lie to you about anything.

9. They love you

When everything is said and done, a genuine friend is a friend who through thick and thin loves you no matter what.