Hedonist: meaning, definitions and examples
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hedonist
[หhiหdษnษชst ]
Definitions
personality trait
A hedonist is someone who believes that the pursuit of pleasure is the most important thing in life.
Synonyms
pleasure-seeker, sybarite, voluptuary.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hedonist |
This word is often used to describe someone whose primary goal in life is to pursue pleasure and self-gratification. It's a neutral term but can carry a slight connotation of self-indulgence.
|
| pleasure-seeker |
This term is used to describe someone who actively seeks out pleasurable experiences and activities. It is quite direct and straightforward, usually with a neutral or slightly superficial undertone.
|
| sybarite |
This word is often used in a more sophisticated or somewhat old-fashioned context to describe someone who loves luxury and indulgence. It has a positive or at least neutral connotation, often implying a refined taste.
|
| voluptuary |
This word is used to describe someone who is devoted to sensual pleasures. It has a slightly archaic tone and can sometimes imply a level of decadence or excess.
|
Examples of usage
- She was a true hedonist, always seeking out new experiences that brought her joy and excitement.
- As a hedonist, he prioritized his own happiness above all else.
philosophy
In philosophy, a hedonist is someone who believes that pleasure is the only intrinsic good.
Synonyms
pleasure-seeker, sybarite, voluptuary.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| hedonist |
Typically used to describe someone who believes that pleasure is the highest good and purpose of life. It can be used in both neutral and mildly negative contexts.
|
| pleasure-seeker |
This term is more straightforward and less philosophical than 'hedonist'. It describes someone who actively looks for enjoyable activities, usually used in neutral contexts.
|
| sybarite |
A highly sophisticated and somewhat archaic term, often used to describe someone who is devoted to luxury and pleasure. It has a cultured, historic connotation.
|
| voluptuary |
This word has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting excess and indulgence in sensual pleasures. It is often used to criticize someone's lifestyle.
|
Examples of usage
- The hedonist philosophy focuses on maximizing pleasure and minimizing pain.
- He adopted a hedonist approach to life, always seeking out experiences that brought him joy.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek word 'hedone,' which means pleasure.
- Used in English since the late 19th century, it originally referred to followers of Greek philosophical schools.
- Philosophers like Epicurus are often associated with hedonism, promoting simple pleasures like friendship and food.
Philosophy
- Hedonism isn't just about physical pleasure; it also considers mental satisfaction, such as joy and fulfillment.
- There are different forms of hedonism, like ethical hedonism, which believes that actions are right if they promote happiness.
- Some critics argue that extreme hedonism can lead to selfishness or neglecting responsibilities.
Cultural Perspectives
- In modern culture, hedonism has often been linked to the pursuit of luxury and excess, like partying or indulgence.
- The Roaring Twenties in the United States was a period known for hedonism, with jazz music, speakeasies, and carefree lifestyles.
- Many art movements celebrate pleasure and sensuality, showcasing hedonistic themes in paintings, literature, and music.
Psychology
- Studies show that people who prioritize pleasure often have higher levels of satisfaction in life, but balance is key.
- Finding pleasure can also vary greatly across cultures, with different values placed on what constitutes happiness.
- Psychological research suggests that the pursuit of pleasure can lead to more significant social connections and overall well-being.
Literature
- Famous works like Oscar Wilde's 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' explore hedonistic themes, showing both the allure and consequences of pleasure.
- Hedonism appears in various literary styles, from romantic poetry to existential essays, highlighting the complexity of desire.
- The concept of hedonism has provoked debate among writers about the moral implications of seeking pleasure versus duty.
Translations
Translations of the word "hedonist" in other languages:
๐ต๐น hedonista
๐ฎ๐ณ เคญเฅเคเคตเคพเคฆเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Hedonist
๐ฎ๐ฉ hedonis
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะตะดะพะฝััั
๐ต๐ฑ hedonista
๐ฏ๐ต ๅฟซๆฅฝไธป็พฉ่ (ใใใใใใ ใใใ)
๐ซ๐ท hรฉdoniste
๐ช๐ธ hedonista
๐น๐ท hedonist
๐ฐ๐ท ์พ๋ฝ์ฃผ์์ (kwairakjuuija)
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ุชูุฐุฐ
๐จ๐ฟ hedonista
๐ธ๐ฐ hedonista
๐จ๐ณ ไบซไนไธปไน่ (xiวnglรจzhวyรฌzhฤ)
๐ธ๐ฎ hedonist
๐ฎ๐ธ lรญfsnautnamaรฐur
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะณะตะดะพะฝะธัั
๐ฌ๐ช แฐแแแแแแกแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ hedonist
๐ฒ๐ฝ hedonista