Platonic love

[ pluh-ton-ik luhv, pley- ]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Platonic love¹

First recorded in 1635–45

Example Sentences

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

“If ‘Nyad’ is a platonic love story, this is the breakup scene.

From Los Angeles Times

“Maybe platonic love is more important,” she said.

From New York Times

It’s not just a platonic love story.

From New York Times