Demoniac Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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demoniac

[ˌdiːməˈneɪɪk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

evil spirits

Possessed by or as if by a demon. Often used to describe behavior or actions that are extremely wicked or evil.

Synonyms

demonic, diabolical, fiendish, satanic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
demoniac	This word is used to describe something that possesses characteristics of demons, often implying madness or uncontrollable violence. The criminal's demoniac laughter sent chills down the witnesses' spines
diabolical	Typically used to describe a plan or action that is extremely evil or cunning, designed to cause harm. Has a slightly more sophisticated or cunning connotation than 'demonic'. The villain's diabolical scheme nearly brought the city to its knees
demonic	This is often used to describe something extremely evil or wicked, with a strong association with demons. His demonic behavior terrified everyone in the room
fiendish	Used to describe someone or something that is extremely wicked or cruel, often with a sense of twisted pleasure in causing pain. Can also imply complexity or cleverness. His fiendish grin suggested that he took pleasure in others' suffering
satanic	Strongly associated with Satan; used to describe something exceptionally evil or malevolent. Often used in a religious context. The ritual had a satanic quality that horrified the onlookers

Examples of usage

He had a demoniac look in his eyes.
The demoniac laughter echoed through the abandoned house.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religious context

A person believed to be possessed by a demon or evil spirit.

Examples of usage

The exorcist was called to help the demoniac.
The demoniac exhibited strange behavior during the ceremony.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

When discussing extreme behavior, the term can highlight actions that might be explained by mental health conditions.
In literature and art, demoniac characters often reflect deeper psychological conflicts or societal fears.
Studies in abnormal psychology explore the fine line between madness and what might be perceived as 'demonic' behavior.

Literature

Romantic poets like Byron used demoniac figures to symbolize rebellion against societal norms.
In horror literature, demoniac characters often serve as antagonists, embodying chaos and evil.
Edgar Allan Poe’s works often feature demoniac traits, illustrating the thin line between genius and madness.

Cultural Depictions

In various cultures, demoniac spirits often represent the struggles between good and evil.
Folklore across the world features tales of demoniac-like figures who challenge heroes, emphasizing moral lessons.
Modern films often portray demoniac characters to tap into viewers' fears, using them as metaphors for real-world fears and vices.

Religious Perspectives

Many religions attribute demoniac behavior to possession or influence by malevolent forces.
Exorcism practices across cultures aim to rid individuals of perceived demoniac influences, highlighting the struggle against evil.
The perception of demoniac entities varies greatly, with some cultures viewing them as messengers and others as pure evil.

Origin of 'demoniac'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from 'demon', which has roots in ancient Greek meaning 'spirit'.
Originally, in the Middle Ages, the term referred to any spirit, but over time it took on darker meanings.
The suffix '-iac' often denotes someone affected by a condition, reinforcing the idea of influence or obsession.

The word 'demoniac' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the Late Latin 'daemoniacus' and the Greek 'daimoniakos', meaning 'pertaining to a demon'. It has been used in religious contexts to describe individuals believed to be under the influence of evil spirits.

See also: demonic, demonify, demonise, demonize, demonstrate.