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 of intimacy

• 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

What stood out most was the crew’s dedication and enthusiasm, along with the intimacy of the experience; the ship is designed for just 100 guests. —David Morris, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2026

Another challenge was adjusting to expectations for onscreen intimacy, a staple of vertical dramas. —Chang Che, New Yorker, 25 Apr. 2026

Your goal isn’t to get anyone fired, but more to help redefine boundaries on intimacy at work. —Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 24 Apr. 2026

With lyrics in the first person, the songs offer an intimacy and presence that have become commodities in a society that talks behind screens and largely focuses on the future. —Selena Fragassi, SPIN, 24 Apr. 2026

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