platonic

the word 'platonic' is an eponym derived directly from the latinized name of the ancient greek philosopher plato. the suffix '-ic', of greek origin via latin, is a standard adjectival ending meaning 'relating to'. the term originally meant 'pertaining to plato or his doctrines', such as the theory of ideal forms. its specific modern sense, describing a non-sexual loving relationship, arose in the 17th century from a reference to the type of exalted spiritual love described in plato's symposium, which he presented as transcending physical desire. thus, the word's journey captures the application of a philosopher's name to the abstract concept he famously explored.

Structure: platon (proper name) + ic (adjective-forming suffix) platon (from latin platon, from ancient greek πλάτων (plátōn), the name of the philosopher; a proper noun used attributively). ic (from latin -icus, from greek -ικός (-ikós); a suffix forming adjectives meaning 'of or pertaining to').