What does platonic mean?
Platonic is an adjective with both a modern interpersonal meaning and a historical philosophical one. In ordinary conversation, it most often describes affection, friendship, admiration, or attraction that is not sexual or romantic, as in a platonic relationship. The modern sense developed from a longer history of European philosophical discussion, in which platonic love came to denote affection that rises above bodily desire. In philosophical contexts, Platonic refers to Plato, his thought, or the tradition of Platonism, including the idea that the physical world reflects more fundamental ideal Forms. The term can sometimes sound formal or emotionally distant, and it should not be used to deny feelings that the people involved actually have. A platonic friendship is therefore often understood as a genuinely affectionate relationship without romance or sexual involvement, while a Platonic argument concerns one of the central conceptual systems of ancient philosophy.
adjectiveRelating to Plato or the philosophical tradition known as Platonism. In modern usage, it describes affection, friendship, or admiration that is not sexual or romantic.
- Affectionate, friendly, or appreciative but not sexual or romantic.
- Relating to Plato, Platonism, or the philosophical ideas attributed to Plato.
"Their relationship was warm and platonic, rooted in a shared love of literature."
"She has a platonic interest in the theatre, although she has never wanted to perform herself."
"The lecture examined the Platonic distinction between sensible objects and ideal Forms."
A platonic relationship is named after Plato, whose writings explored both the highest forms of love and the ideal structures behind the visible world.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of platonic
The English adjective comes through Latin Platonicus, a form meaning “of or relating to Plato.” Its ultimate source is the Greek name Plato, the celebrated ancient philosopher. Modern usage also carries the historical idea of platonic love, affection directed toward a person without sexual or physical desire. The philosophical sense remains current in expressions such as Platonic idealism and the Platonic Forms.
How platonic is actually used
In contemporary use, the word is commonly lowercase and usually means nonsexual affection or friendship. It is capitalized when referring directly to Plato, Platonism, or the historical Platonic tradition.