Here's what we can glean from its evolution:
* Early Use: While the term itself might be recent, the concept of friends engaging in sexual activity has existed for centuries.
* 1980s-1990s: The phrase began appearing in popular culture and media, often used to describe casual, non-committal relationships with sexual intimacy.
* 2000s: The term gained significant mainstream popularity with the rise of online dating and hookup culture. Shows like "Friends" (which aired from 1994 to 2004) also played a role in normalizing the concept.
* Contemporary Use: "Friends with benefits" has become widely accepted, even entering dictionaries.
It's important to note that:
* Multiple Origins: The phrase may have originated independently in different contexts, making it hard to pinpoint a single source.
* Evolution: The meaning of the phrase has also evolved over time. Initially, it might have focused solely on the physical aspect of the relationship. Today, it often encompasses shared emotional intimacy, friendship, and a sense of connection beyond just sex.
While the exact origin remains unclear, "friends with benefits" is now a well-established term used to describe a specific type of relationship in modern society.