Buddy, companion (8)

I believe the answer is:

sidekick

I believe this is a double definition.

'buddy' is the first definition.
(I know that buddy is a type of buddy)

'companion' is the second definition.
(I have seen 'Close companion ' mean 'sidekick' so perhaps 'companion' could also mean 'sidekick')

(Other definitions for sidekick that I've seen before include "Friday, say" , "mate" , "Fellow adventurer - partner or deputy" , "Person's assistant" , "Close companion" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times (Simplex) and The Irish Times.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.