Asocial: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The prefix 'a-' means 'not' in Greek, combined with 'social' from Latin, which means 'companion' or 'associated'.
• The term gained popularity in the early 20th century as psychological studies began to define various social behaviors.

Psychology

• Asocial behavior is different from antisocial behavior; asocial individuals are not necessarily harmful to others.
• People can be asocial due to genetics, upbringing, or personal preferences, leading them to enjoy solitary activities.
• Studies show that social environments can either energize or drain asocial individuals, influencing their social interactions.

Pop Culture

• Certain characters in media, like Sherlock Holmes, are portrayed as asocial, showcasing intelligence over social skills.
• Asocial traits are often explored in video games, where characters might prefer solitary quests over team play.

Society

• Asociability can be misinterpreted as rudeness or aloofness, which can lead to misunderstandings in social settings.
• In contemporary society, people are increasingly celebrating 'me time', showing that asocial traits can be viewed positively.

Literature

• Many classic literary characters, such as Emily Dickinson, exemplified asocial tendencies while producing remarkable works.
• Books exploring the theme of isolation often delve into the psychology behind asocial behavior, offering rich narratives.

This word's position of #33,143 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 33140 olfaction
• 33141 prude
• 33142 dawdling
• 33143 asocial
• 33144 predating
• 33145 pulverize
• 33146 unbeaten
• ...