intimate

UK: /ˈɪn.tɪ.mət/ | US: /ˈɪn.t̬ɪ.mət/

Definition

  1. adj. closely acquainted; familiar (e.g., intimate friends)

  2. adj. private and personal (e.g., intimate details)

  3. vt. to imply or hint subtly

Structure
in <not>tim <fear>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

intimate = in<not> + tim<fear> + ate<verb suffix>

  • in (Latin prefix meaning "not" or "into")
  • tim (from Latin timere, meaning "to fear"; reflects vulnerability in closeness)
  • ate (verb-forming suffix indicating action or state)

Etymology Origin:
The word "intimate" traces back to Latin intimare ("to announce, make known"), derived from intimus ("innermost"). The root tim (fear) subtly reflects the vulnerability inherent in deep familiarity. Over time, the meaning shifted from "inner" to "close" (adj.) and "to hint" (verb), capturing both emotional proximity and subtle communication.

Examples

  1. They shared an intimate conversation under the stars.

  2. The diary contained her most intimate thoughts.

  3. He intimated his disapproval without saying a word.

  4. The room had an intimate atmosphere with soft lighting.

  5. She intimated that changes were coming to the company.