Intimate Meaning
Intimate Definition & Usage
Having a close, personal, and private relationship, typically involving strong feelings of affection or closeness.
Examples
- "They shared an intimate conversation about their future together."
- "The intimate setting of the small café made their meeting feel special."
- "After years of friendship, they developed an intimate understanding of each other’s thoughts."
- "She was always the most intimate friend in the group, always knowing how to comfort others."
- "He shared intimate details of his childhood that he had never told anyone before."
Referring to something that is private, secret, or reserved for a small, select group of people.
Examples
- "The couple enjoyed a weekend at an intimate, secluded cabin in the woods."
- "He preferred an intimate dinner with only his closest friends."
- "The wedding was small and intimate, with only family in attendance."
- "She had an intimate birthday party, inviting only a few of her closest friends."
- "They exchanged intimate gifts that reflected their deep personal connection."
Relating to or involving a close, romantic, or sexual relationship.
Examples
- "They had an intimate relationship that no one else knew about."
- "The intimate moments they shared were precious to her."
- "He was looking for an intimate connection rather than a casual fling."
- "Their intimate moments together felt like a secret world of their own."
- "She cherished their intimate encounters as they grew closer."
Cultural Context
The word 'intimate' originates from the Latin 'intimatus', which means 'inmost'. Historically, it has conveyed a sense of closeness or familiarity, both in emotional and physical terms. In modern English, it carries a broad range of meanings from private and secluded to affectionate and romantic.
The Quiet Garden
Story
The Quiet Garden
On a cool autumn afternoon, Rachel and James sat on the bench in the intimate garden behind their favorite café. The garden, shielded by ivy-covered walls and bathed in soft sunlight, felt like a secret haven away from the busy world. They had been friends for years, but their relationship had deepened recently. There was something about the way they looked at each other now—more than just friends, but less than lovers. Their conversations had become more intimate, touching on things they'd never shared before. 'You know,' Rachel said, glancing at him, 'I’ve always felt this garden is special. It’s like our place to share secrets.' James smiled, nodding in agreement. 'I feel the same way. It’s so private here, like nothing can touch us.' They sat in silence for a moment, the quiet hum of the café in the distance adding to the peaceful intimacy of the moment. There were no grand gestures, no promises made—just the comfort of being together in this little world they’d built. Later that evening, as they said goodbye, there was a warmth between them, the closeness undeniable. They didn’t need words to confirm what they both knew—their relationship had become something more intimate than ever before.