INTIMATE PARTNER Meaning and
Definition
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Intimate partner refers to a person who is closely connected to another individual through a close personal, emotional, and/or sexual relationship. This term is commonly used to describe a romantic or sexual partner in a committed relationship, typically outside of marriage. An intimate partner could be a boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse, or any person involved in a consensual and intimate relationship.
The term "intimate" signifies the deep emotional connection and level of trust shared between the partners involved. It implies a close bond characterized by sharing personal thoughts, feelings, experiences, and physical affection. An intimate partner relationship often involves a sense of commitment, support, and mutual respect.
Furthermore, the term usually implies a sense of exclusivity, suggesting that the relationship is limited to a particular individual and involves intimate interactions that are not usually shared with others. Intimate partners often engage in activities together, such as sharing meals, living together, traveling, and participating in various aspects of each other's lives.
It is important to note that the concept of intimate partner encompasses relationships of various orientations and gender identities. Intimate partners can be involved in heterosexual, homosexual, or bisexual relationships, and the term does not discriminate based on gender or any other personal characteristic. Ultimately, an intimate partner is someone who shares a significant emotional and often physical bond with another person in a committed relationship.
Etymology of INTIMATE PARTNER
The etymology of the word "intimate partner" can be broken down as follows:
1. Intimate: The word "intimate" originated from the Latin word "intimus", which means "innermost" or "most private". It entered Middle English from the Old French word "intime" in the late 16th century. The concept of intimacy developed over time to refer to close personal relationships characterized by emotional closeness, trust, and familiarity.
2. Partner: The word "partner" comes from the Latin word "particeps", which means "participant" or "shareholder". It entered Middle English from the Old French word "partener" in the 14th century. Originally, "partner" referred to someone who was a joint owner or participant in a business. Over time, the term expanded to encompass various types of close collaborations, including personal relationships.
