Platonic love

American  

[pluh-ton-ik luhv, pley-] / pləˈtɒn ɪk ˈlʌv, pleɪ- /

noun

1. Platonism. love of the Idea of beauty, seen as terminating an evolution from the desire for an individual and the love of physical beauty to the love and contemplation of spiritual or ideal beauty.

2. Usually platonic love an intimate companionship or relationship, especially between two people of different genders, that is characterized by the absence of sexual involvement; a spiritual affection.

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Etymology

Origin of Platonic love

First recorded in 1635–45

Example Sentences

“Maybe I was hyper-emotional from everything that had happened, but I remember being so struck,” that the special celebrated platonic love over romantic love, Jeong said.

From Los Angeles Times

But above all, she was moved by the platonic love story between Nikki and Molly.

From Los Angeles Times

The familiar fuzziness of “And Just Like That” and “Mid-Century Modern” could have something to do with their shared creative DNA with classic sitcoms that promote the strength of platonic love as life’s true treasure and a shield against romantic disappointment.

From Salon

While most musicals feature a strong romantic love story, one of the biggest themes in this show is platonic love.

From BBC

Nasir says she sees more of an emphasis on platonic love, an expansion of what a long-term soulmate relationship can be, as depicted in series like “Grace and Frankie” or “Insecure.”

From Los Angeles Times