intimacy

American  

[in-tuh-muh-see] / ˈɪn tə mə si /

noun

plural

intimacies

1. the state of being intimate.

2. a close, familiar, and usually affectionate or loving personal relationship with another person or group.

   Synonyms:

   affection, warmth, familiarity, closeness

3. a close association with or detailed knowledge or deep understanding of a place, subject, period of history, etc..

   an intimacy with Japan.

4. an act or expression serving as a token of familiarity, affection, or the like.

   to allow the intimacy of using first names.

5. an amorously familiar act; liberty.

6. sexual intercourse.

7. the quality of being comfortable, warm, or familiar.

   the intimacy of the room.

8. privacy, especially as suitable to the telling of a secret.

   in the intimacy of his studio.

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intimacy British  

/ ˈɪntɪməsɪ /

noun

1. close or warm friendship or understanding; personal relationship

2. euphemistic (often plural) sexual relations

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Etymology

Origin of intimacy

First recorded in 1635–45; intim(ate) ¹ + -acy

Example Sentences

But Lizzie, our intimacy coordinator, she is the best, she is incredible.

From Los Angeles Times

It reflects a generation grappling with identity and intimacy in a political system that many feel no longer represents them.

From The Wall Street Journal

The science of interpersonal synchrony explains how “clicking” can be a fast track to intimacy—or drama.

From The Wall Street Journal

I can think of few theatrical experiences that made me feel in such intimacy with the performers, even as the illusion of their presence never left me.

From The Wall Street Journal

Stark, discomforting amplification diminishes intimacy and the luxurious richness of Bullock’s soprano, which easily fills a room on its own, suggests quiet terror, the lonely state of Nina Simone’s “Images.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• affection
• confidence
• confidentiality
• familiarity
• friendship
• understanding