Kindred spirits refers to two or more people who share very similar interests, values, or feelings, creating a strong sense of connection, understanding, and mutual appreciation.
Many people wonder what it means when someone calls another a kindred spirit. Without context, it can be confusing. Being kindred spirits isn’t just friendship—it’s a deep bond based on shared perspectives, emotions, or life experiences. This connection often feels effortless, like finding someone who truly “gets” you.
Beyond personal relationships, the term can also describe creative partnerships, team dynamics, or even pets and people who naturally connect, emphasizing harmony and mutual understanding. Recognizing kindred spirits helps in forming meaningful connections and appreciating relationships that go beyond casual acquaintances.
Explore kindred spirits’ meaning, usage, and examples to understand and celebrate these deep connections.
💡 What Does Kindred Spirits Mean?
“Kindred spirits” refers to two or more people who share a deep emotional, intellectual, or spiritual connection.
It’s a phrase, not slang, often used to describe people who feel instantly connected because of shared values, thoughts, or energy.
Example:
“We met only once, but it felt like we were kindred spirits.” 💫
🕰️ Origin and Popularity
The term “kindred spirits” comes from the word kindred, meaning “of the same kind or nature,” and spirit, referring to one’s inner self or soul.
The phrase gained popularity in literature during the 18th and 19th centuries, especially in Romantic and philosophical writings where emotional depth and soul connections were celebrated.
A major cultural moment came from L. M. Montgomery’s 1908 novel Anne of Green Gables, where Anne describes her best friend Diana as a “kindred spirit.” This expression has since become a timeless way to describe soul-level friendships or romantic bonds. 🌸
🪞 Kindred Spirits Meaning in Different Contexts
💬 In Everyday Conversation
People use “kindred spirits” to describe deep friendships or instant emotional connections.
“We talked for hours on our first meeting — true kindred spirits.”
💖 In Love and Relationships
In romance, kindred spirits often describes soulmates or partners who understand each other beyond words.
“They’re not just lovers, they’re kindred spirits.”
💼 In Work or Collaboration
It can also describe coworkers or creative partners who share vision and purpose.
“The two founders were kindred spirits, united by passion and innovation.”
| Context | Meaning | Emotional Tone |
| Friendship | Deep mutual understanding | Warm, comforting 🤝 |
| Romance | Soul-level emotional connection | Passionate ❤️ |
| Work | Shared vision or creativity | Inspiring 💡 |
💞 Examples of Kindred Spirits in Conversations
Example 1:
Friend 1: You and I think so much alike!
Friend 2: I know, it’s like we’re kindred spirits! ✨
Example 2:
Colleague: We didn’t even need to explain our ideas — kindred spirits from day one.
Example 3 (Romantic):
“Our souls just click. We’re kindred spirits in every sense.” 💘
🌿 Similar or Related Terms
Here are words and phrases often associated with kindred spirits, along with how they differ:
| Term | Meaning | Difference |
| Soulmates | Two people meant to be together emotionally or spiritually | Usually romantic 💑 |
| Twin Flames | Deep spiritual mirror of oneself | More intense, mystical 🔥 |
| Like-minded | Sharing similar ideas or beliefs | More intellectual than emotional 🧠 |
| Close friends | Emotionally connected companions | Not always spiritual 🤗 |
🧭 How to Use “Kindred Spirits” Correctly
✅ Do’s:
- Use it when describing emotional or soulful connections.
- Use it for both friendships and romantic relationships.
- It’s suitable in formal and informal contexts.
❌ Don’ts:
- Don’t use it casually for acquaintances or coworkers you barely know.
- Avoid overusing it — it implies something rare and special.
Examples:
✅ “We instantly connected — true kindred spirits.”
❌ “My gym buddy and I like the same snacks; we’re kindred spirits.” 😅
⚠️ Common Mistakes or Misinterpretations
- Mistaking it for “soulmates.”
→ Kindred spirits can be friends, not necessarily romantic. - Assuming it’s spiritual only.
→ It can also mean intellectual or emotional alignment. - Using it too lightly.
→ The phrase implies deep, meaningful resonance, not surface-level chemistry.
❓ FAQ Section
1. What does “kindred spirits” mean in relationships?
It means two people share a deep emotional or spiritual connection — often beyond logic or time. They “get” each other completely.
2. Is “kindred spirits” the same as “soulmates”?
Not exactly. While both describe deep bonds, soulmates are often romantic, whereas kindred spirits can include friends, mentors, or creative partners.
3. Can you have more than one kindred spirit?
Yes! You can meet several kindred spirits throughout life — friends, teachers, or even online connections that resonate with your soul. 🌍
4. Is “kindred spirits” a compliment?
Absolutely. Calling someone a kindred spirit is one of the highest compliments, showing admiration and emotional closeness.
5. How do you know if someone is your kindred spirit?
You feel instantly understood, safe, and seen. Conversations flow naturally, and silence feels comfortable. 💗
6. Is “kindred spirits” a modern or old-fashioned term?
It’s timeless! Though rooted in classic literature, it remains popular today — especially in quotes, books, and social media captions.
🕊️ Conclusion
To sum it up, “kindred spirits” describes two people whose hearts, minds, or souls deeply align. 💞
The phrase, rooted in centuries of poetry and literature, continues to represent a connection that’s rare, genuine, and profound. Whether it’s friendship, love, or creative partnership, meeting a kindred spirit is a beautiful reminder that some bonds are simply meant to be. ✨
Now that you know the kindred spirits meaning, cherish those connections — they’re life’s most precious gifts. 💫
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Claire Fuller is a word-meaning specialist at Meanovia.com. She explains complex words, phrases, and language trends in a clear, relatable way, helping readers quickly understand the exact meaning behind every term.
