intimacy

noun

in·​ti·​ma·​cy ˈin-tə-mə-sē 

plural intimacies

1

: the state of being intimate : familiarity

2

: something of a personal or private nature

Synonyms

• familiarity
• belonging
• kinship
• friendship
• love

Examples of intimacy in a Sentence

the intimacy of old friends

the intimacy of their relationship

He felt he achieved a certain intimacy with her.

The band liked the intimacy of the nightclub.

Recent Examples on the Web

Before September comes to a close, however, your passion intensifies, as do questions around intimacy, shared investments and desire, nudging you to create a healthy balance in your love life. —Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025

Because every exchange risks devolving into an ideological spar, partners may feel less inclined to share the personal thoughts and feelings that contribute so greatly to intimacy. —Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

Rather, unlike Butler, Li is disinterested in establishing any form of intimacy with the reader. —Sarah Adler september 8, Literary Hub, 8 Sep. 2025

Low-pressure, comfortable companionship supports deeper intimacy just as much as active socialization can. —Mark Travers, CNBC, 7 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

intimacy

noun

in·​ti·​ma·​cy ˈint-ə-mə-sē 

plural intimacies

1

: the state of being intimate

2

: something of a personal or private nature

shared little intimacies in their letters