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Platonic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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platonic

[plษ™หˆtษ’nษชk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

philosophical concept

Platonic refers to the ideas and philosophy of Plato, an ancient Greek philosopher. This term often describes a relationship that is purely spiritual and non-sexual. In a Platonic relationship, individuals may share deep affection and emotional connection without any physical intimacy. This notion emphasizes intellectual and emotional bonds rather than physical attraction or sexual interaction.

Synonyms

intellectual, non-sexual, spiritual.

Examples of usage

  • Their friendship was entirely Platonic, with no romantic feelings involved.
  • She appreciated the Platonic nature of their discussions about life.
  • His affection for her was Platonic, rooted in mutual respect and admiration.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Plato proposed that true love transcends the physical and embraces a deeper emotional and intellectual connection.
  • In his works, particularly 'The Symposium', discussions around love categorize it into different types, with platonic love considered the highest form.
  • Platonic love is seen as a way to connect with someoneโ€™s soul, valuing their mind and character over physical attraction.

Pop Culture

  • The concept appears frequently in literature and films, often featuring friendships that highlight emotional intimacy without romance.
  • Famous duos in modern media, like the characters Sam and Frodo in 'The Lord of the Rings', embody platonic love through their deep bond.

Psychology

  • Studies show that platonic relationships can provide emotional support and enhance well-being, much like romantic ones.
  • Psychologists argue that platonic friendships help develop social skills and emotional intelligence essential in romantic relationships.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Some cultures emphasize platonic relationships as an essential part of social life, valuing companionship over romantic involvement.
  • In contemporary society, especially among youth, platonic friendships are commonly celebrated and respected, breaking traditional views on love.

Origin of 'platonic'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the name of the ancient Greek philosopher Plato, who discussed the ideas of love and friendship in his works.
  • Initially, it described a love that was intellectual and non-physical, emphasizing the importance of the mind over the body.

The term 'Platonic' originates from the name of the philosopher Plato, who lived from 428/427 to 348/347 BC. Plato's work encompassed a wide range of subjects, including ethics, politics, aesthetics, and epistemology. He believed in the existence of ideal forms and the pursuit of absolute truth. The concept of Platonic love was introduced in his dialogues, notably in 'Symposium', where he discusses various types of love. Platonic love was seen as a high form of love, focused on the intellectual and the spiritual connection between individuals, disconnected from the physical desires. Throughout the centuries, the meaning of Platonic has evolved, moving beyond its philosophical roots to describe non-romantic, but affectionate relationships, as well as interactions devoid of sexual desire. Today, it is widely used to depict companionship that emphasizes emotional intimacy over physical attraction.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,962, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.