Platonic

/pləˈtɑːnɪk/ adjective

Definition

Describing a close relationship or friendship between two people that doesn't involve romantic or sexual feelings.

Etymology

Named after the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, who wrote about non-romantic love and ideal forms of relationship. The word entered English in the 1600s as people named the concept after his ideas.

Kelly Says

It's ironic that we call non-romantic friendships 'Platonic' when Plato's writings show he was obsessed with different kinds of love and desire—scholars debate whether he actually endorsed this meaning!

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