Matchmaking means bringing two people together, hoping they'll become friends or, more traditionally, romantic partners. A matchmaker is someone who thinks, “These two people would really like each other,” and tries to arrange for them to meet.

Historically, matchmaking was a serious profession in many cultures. Professional matchmakers would help families find suitable marriage partners for their children, considering factors like shared values, background, and compatibility. In some places, matchmakers still perform this important social role, though today most people choose their own partners.

The word has expanded beyond romance. In video games, matchmaking means pairing players of similar skill levels so games stay competitive and fun. A chess app uses matchmaking to connect a beginner with another beginner, not with a grandmaster. Sports leagues use matchmaking when organizing teams so games aren't too lopsided.

You might also hear someone say they're matchmaking friends, meaning they're introducing two people they think would enjoy knowing each other. Maybe you have a friend who loves basketball and another who needs players for a pickup game. Bringing them together would be a kind of matchmaking, connecting people who could benefit from knowing each other.