The previous thread linked above includes Wikipedia's definition.
I know Wiki's not a proper source but what's said there seems to get it right c/p my experience: a special, platonic friendship with a work colleague characterized by a close emotional bond, high levels of disclosure and support, and mutual trust, honesty, loyalty, and respect. I think the use of the word platonic alludes to the fact that such relationships will be with someone of the sex to whom you're naturally attracted. Otherwise I guess they'd just be a best mate at work.
I've had, maybe, four such relationships down the years. First was, at least biologically, old enough to have been my Mother. Others were a bit younger but none massively so. None were, I think, women I'd have thought about as alternative partners even if Mrs B has 'stopped a bus'.
The interaction between such relationships and actual real world wifes and partners is worthy of doctoral research.
Mrs B and I both have close friends we've met professionally who are of the opposite sex. Either of us seeing them at or outside of work is simply not an issue. I guess there are boundaries but neither of us have felt the need to spell them out or worry.
A quick look on Mumsnet or wherever will tell you that such understanding is far from universal.....
Last edited by: Bromptonaut on Fri 25 Aug 23 at 22:35
|