1
as in intimacy
the state of being in a very personal or private relationship
my cousin and I have lost that nearness we had when we were kids
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in proximity
the state or condition of being near
our nearness to the theme park has made us beloved by relatives from all over the country
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of nearness
That tension—between nearness and distance, inside and outside—defines the film’s structure and tone.
—
Matthew Carey, Deadline, 23 Jan. 2026
The nearness of bees, and of other things that agitate most people, calms me.
—Rivka Galchen, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2025
Overstating the nearness of human-level intelligence or ignoring ethical, safety, and energy concerns erodes trust and triggers backlash.
—Paulo Carvão, Forbes.com, 24 Aug. 2025
Matthew Carey, Deadline, 23 Jan. 2026
The nearness of bees, and of other things that agitate most people, calms me.
—Rivka Galchen, New Yorker, 21 Sep. 2025
Overstating the nearness of human-level intelligence or ignoring ethical, safety, and energy concerns erodes trust and triggers backlash.
—Paulo Carvão, Forbes.com, 24 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for nearness
Noun
-
Rozanov and Hollander begin their relationship through their erotic connection, but that allows the rest to develop over time, through flirty texts and increasing intimacy.—
Ian Kerner 19 hr ago,
CNN Money,
3 Feb. 2026
-
Her transdermal patches target sleep, focus, energy and intimacy, among other needs.—
Kathryn Hopkins,
Footwear News,
3 Feb. 2026
Noun
-
Several of the developments are within walking distance of Austin transit routes or the first phase of Project Connect, a proximity that could strengthen the city’s transit network.—
Chaya Tong,
Austin American Statesman,
6 Feb. 2026
-
The property’s proximity to the Campus at Horton may also factor into bids.—
Jennifer Van Grove,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
6 Feb. 2026
Noun
-
There are no frills or fancy touches, but a sense of familiarity and open-mindedness radiates throughout.—
Lydia Mansel,
Travel + Leisure,
9 Feb. 2026
-
The familiarity was instantaneous.—
Tribune News Service,
Baltimore Sun,
9 Feb. 2026
Noun
-
On the other hand, the quick turnaround time of short-haul flights can also put your belongings at risk.—
Alesandra Dubin,
Travel + Leisure,
8 Feb. 2026
-
Get rid of your ex's belongings and gifts This coping mechanism is one for people of legal drinking age.—
Julia Gomez,
USA Today,
7 Feb. 2026
Noun
-
Most of our families have at least one, especially in the Black community, where single parenthood is statistically common, and kinship networks hold historical importance.—
Ashley Simpo,
Parents,
30 Jan. 2026
-
All felt a kinship with Kahlo and mined her paintings and personal history.—
Chadd Scott,
Forbes.com,
29 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Nearness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nearness. Accessed 10 Feb. 2026.
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