intimate
IN-tih-mit
/ˈɪntɪmət/
Closely acquainted; familiar, close; also, private and personal.
Can describe a relationship, a setting (like a small restaurant), or a deep knowledge of a subject.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'intimus,' the superlative form of 'interior.' It literally means 'innermost,' referring to the deepest parts of one's thoughts or feelings shared with another.
Word relationships
- close: Close is general; intimate suggests a deeper, more personal, or more private level of connection.
- distant: Lacking closeness or familiarity.
- public: Open to everyone, not private.
Commonly confused with
- intimidate: To intimidate is to frighten; intimate is to be close or familiar.
Word family
- intimacy (noun): The state of being intimate.
- intimately (adverb): In an intimate manner.
Collocations
- intimate setting
- intimate relationship
- intimate knowledge
Example sentences
- "They chose an intimate ceremony with only ten guests to celebrate their nuptials." Describing a small gathering.
- "It was an intimate conversation that lasted until the sun came up." Describing a deep connection.
Memory hook
In-to-me-see: Intimacy is letting someone see into your innermost self. Innermost and personal.
When not to use
Be careful in professional settings; calling a colleague 'intimate' can be misinterpreted as implying a romantic relationship.
Fun facts
- In the 17th century, 'intimate' was often used as a noun to mean a very close friend.
Related words
Explore more words
intimacy, acquaintance, confidant, affectionate, estrange, fondness
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