What is an emotional affair?

Ok wouldn't say that I'm having a issue with this, I think, but I've heard a lot of friends talk about it. I've been doing some research online but I'm still a bit confused at what an emotional affair is? I understand it's not a physical relationship. Is flirting a key component to it? I have friends that are women. I do complement them but I wouldn't say I flirt with them, and they don't flirt with me. My wife has met them and hung out with them in groups. I don't hide anything from my wife about when I talk/text/email with them. If we're ever alone (at lunch or what not) we're in a public place. We talk a bit about our spouses but I wouldn't say we ever talk down about them. We mostly talk about what ever common interest we share. I guess what I'm asking is what separates an emotional affair from a friendship with someone of the opposite sex. I realize that the answer may vary with the social norms you were raised with.

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