Benchfellow is a relatively obscure term meaning a companion who is on the same level as oneself. However, there are many other words that can be used to convey a similar meaning. For instance, a peer is someone who is of equal rank or status and can be considered a benchfellow. Likewise, a comrade is a companion who shares one's activities or interests and can be regarded as a benchfellow as well. Additionally, a contemporary denotes someone who is living or existing at the same time as oneself and can be seen as a benchfellow too. Other synonyms include coequal, compeer, mate, fellow, and ally.