noun
platonic relationship
pluh-TON-ik ri-LAY-shuhn-ship
Platonic relationship (noun) means a close, affectionate relationship between two people that involves no sex or romance. Example: “They have shared a flat for six years in a purely platonic relationship.”
noun
1
A close, affectionate relationship between two people that involves no sex or romance.
"They have shared a flat for six years in a purely platonic relationship."
"She insisted the friendship was platonic and always had been."
How to use platonic relationship
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA very close friendship with no sex or romance in it.
When to use it
Neutral. Capitalise 'Platonic' only when referring to the philosophy of Plato.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
purely platonic
strictly platonic
platonic friend
platonic love
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Etymology
From the name of the Greek philosopher Plato, whose Symposium describes a love that rises above physical desire towards the ideal; the modern narrower sense of 'friendship without sex' developed later.
Synonyms
View more →
non-romantic friendship
close friendship
Antonyms
romantic relationship
sexual relationship
Rhymes for platonic relationship
See all rhymes for platonic relationship →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a platonic and a romantic relationship?
Both can involve deep affection, loyalty and time spent together. The difference is the absence of sexual or romantic attraction and intent in a platonic one — no dating, no physical intimacy beyond ordinary friendly contact.
Can a platonic relationship turn romantic?
It can, and often does, which is why people sometimes state the boundary explicitly. A relationship is only platonic for as long as both people treat it that way.
Is a platonic relationship the same as a friendship?
Effectively yes, but the word 'platonic' is chosen when the relationship is close or intense enough that people might otherwise assume romance, so it clarifies what is not happening.
What is the meaning of platonic relationship?
"platonic relationship" (noun) means a close, affectionate relationship between two people that involves no sex or romance.
