1. Definition & Meaning
- Sexual intimacy (noun):
A close, private connection between people that involves physical affection and sexual activity, usually shared in a trusting, emotional relationship.
It typically includes actions like kissing, touching, or intercourse that express love, desire, or closeness between partners.
2. Pronunciation
- IPA: /ˈsɛkʃuəl ˈɪntɪməsi/
- Breakdown: SEK-shoo-uhl IN-tuh-muh-see
3. Grammatical Formation
| Part of Speech | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Noun phrase | sexual intimacy | “Emotional trust strengthens sexual intimacy.” |
It is used as a noun phrase and often followed by prepositions like in, between, or with.
4. Synonyms
physical closeness, romantic closeness, sexual connection, intimate relation, bodily intimacy, sexual union
5. Antonyms
emotional distance, abstinence, celibacy, detachment, platonic relationship
6. Related Terms
- Lovemaking: Romantic or sexual intercourse with emotional affection.
- Consensual sex: Sexual activity agreed upon by all involved.
- Emotional intimacy: Deep trust and emotional closeness.
- Foreplay: Affectionate actions before sexual activity.
- Mutual desire: Shared emotional and physical interest.
7. Common Collocations
- build sexual intimacy
- deepen sexual intimacy
- sexual intimacy in marriage
- lack of sexual intimacy
- sexual intimacy between partners
- maintain sexual intimacy
8. Idiomatic Usage & Expressions
- “Be close with someone” – implies emotional or sexual closeness.
- “Share a bed” – idiom for being sexually or romantically involved.
- “Behind closed doors” – refers to private romantic or intimate moments.
- “Heat things up” – to increase romantic or sexual tension or excitement.
9. Sample Sentences
- “Sexual intimacy plays an important role in many romantic relationships.”
- “Without communication, sexual intimacy may fade in long-term partnerships.”
- “They worked on rebuilding sexual intimacy after emotional distance grew.”
- “Trust and affection help partners enjoy healthy sexual intimacy.”
- “Lack of sexual intimacy can be a signal of deeper relationship issues.”