Intimate
/ˈɪntɪmət/
Definitions
3 meaningsCharacterized by a close personal relationship, private, or very familiar.
/ˈɪntɪmət/
Marked by very close personal connection; very familiar.
The couple shared an intimate dinner at a secluded restaurant.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a super close friend. You share secrets, spend lots of time together, and know everything about each other. That’s an intimate friendship! It's like having a bestie you can always trust.
👶 For kids: When you're intimate with someone, it means you're really good friends, or maybe family, and you know each other very, very well. You share secrets and fun times!
More Examples
She described her intimate friendship with her childhood best friend.
They had an intimate understanding of each other's needs.
How It's Used
"They have an intimate relationship."
"I have an intimate circle of friends."
Suggesting informality, privacy, or secrecy.
/ˈɪntɪmət/
Private and personal; implying privacy and secrecy.
The painting provided an intimate glimpse into the artist's life.
💡 Simply: Imagine a super-secret meeting or a private concert just for a small group of people. That's an intimate setting. It's about keeping things private and special.
👶 For kids: When something is intimate, it means it's a secret or private thing. Like a secret club or a special hideout.
More Examples
They held an intimate ceremony to celebrate their marriage.
The novel offered an intimate portrayal of life during that era.
How It's Used
"The artist created an intimate portrait."
"They held an intimate gathering."
To state or imply something delicately or subtly; to hint.
/ˈɪntɪmeɪt/
To state or suggest something in an indirect or subtle way; to hint.
The letter intimated the possibility of a new job offer.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to tell your friend a secret, but you don't want everyone else to hear. You might 'intimate' it, meaning you subtly hint at it without saying it directly. It's like a secret code for adults!
👶 For kids: When you intimate something, it means you're trying to tell someone something without saying it out loud. Like a secret whisper!
More Examples
She intimated her displeasure with a subtle frown.
He intimated his intentions through careful wording.
How It's Used
"He intimated that he knew the truth."
"The report intimated potential problems."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
intimate with
To have a close, often sexual, relationship with someone.
"She was intimate with the famous actor."
From Latin *intimatus*, past participle of *intimare* "to make known, impress," from *intimus* "inmost, innermost," superlative of *inter* "within."
The word 'intimate' has been used since the 15th century, evolving from describing inward thoughts to close relationships and personal matters.
Memory tip
Think of "in-the-mate" - very close friends or partners.
Word Origin
"inmost, innermost"