Drift apart Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact Implies a sense of loss or sadness at the reduced closeness in a relationship. It was tough to acknowledge that we had drifted apart after college. Pro Tip 2/3Natural Process Suggests the separation is gradual and often unintentional. Despite our efforts, we just drifted apart over the years. Pro Tip 3/3Not Immediate Indicates that drifting apart from someone doesn't happen suddenly. Over the decade, they drifted apart as they pursued different paths.