Aesthete Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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aesthete

[หˆษ›sหŒฮธiหt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

appreciating beauty

A person who has or affects a special appreciation of art and beauty. An aesthete is someone who is sensitive to beauty in art and nature. They have a deep admiration for artistic and aesthetic values.

Synonyms

art lover, beauty enthusiast.

Examples of usage

  • He was known among his friends as an aesthete, always visiting art galleries and attending cultural events.
  • The aesthete spent hours admiring the intricate details of the painting.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Art Movements

  • In the late 19th century, the Aesthetic Movement celebrated beauty for its own sake, influencing art, literature, and design.
  • Notable figures of this movement included Oscar Wilde and James McNeill Whistler, who embodied the ideals of an aesthete through their work.
  • The movement emphasized the importance of visual beauty over moral or utilitarian aspects in art.

Literature and Philosophy

  • Aesthetes often explore themes of beauty and art in literature, seen in works by authors like John Keats and Fyodor Dostoevsky.
  • Philosophers like Immanuel Kant discussed aesthetic judgment, contributing to the understanding of how we perceive beauty.
  • The idea of the 'aesthete' is often contrasted with the 'philistine', who is seen as lacking artistic sensibility.

Pop Culture

  • In contemporary culture, 'aesthete' may be used to describe people who are prominent in art scenes, often influencing trends in fashion and interior design.
  • Television shows and movies, such as 'The Great Gatsby', portray characters as aesthetes, highlighting their elaborate lifestyles and appreciation for beauty.
  • Social media platforms have also spawned a new generation of aesthetes, sharing visual art and lifestyle content that celebrates aesthetics.

Psychology

  • Studies in psychology suggest that individuals identified as aesthetes may have heightened sensory sensitivity, leading to increased appreciation for beauty.
  • The appreciation of beauty can influence mental health positively, with activities related to aesthetics linked to improved well-being.
  • Engaging with art and beauty has been shown to foster creativity and enhance emotional intelligence in individuals.

Origin of 'aesthete'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'aesthete' comes from the Greek word 'aisthesis', which means 'sensation' or 'perception'.
  • It began to appear in English during the 19th century, gaining popularity among art critics and philosophers.
  • Initially used to describe someone with refined tastes, it has evolved to often imply a deeper appreciation for beauty.

The word 'aesthete' originated from the Greek word 'aisthฤ“tฤ“s' meaning 'a person who perceives.' In the 19th century, the term became popular to describe individuals who had a deep appreciation for beauty and art. Aesthetes were often associated with the Aesthetic Movement, which emphasized the importance of art and beauty in everyday life.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,944 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.