Masochism: meaning, definitions and examples

๐Ÿ˜–
Add to dictionary

masochism

 

[หˆmรฆs.ษ™.kษช.zษ™m ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

psychological condition

Masochism is a psychological condition where an individual derives pleasure from experiencing pain or humiliation. This phenomenon can manifest in various forms, including sexual pleasure derived from physical pain or emotional suffering. Masochism is often discussed in the context of BDSM, where participants may engage in consensual acts of pain for mutual enjoyment. It is important to note that masochism should be distinguished from self-harm, as the former is consensual and often involves a clear understanding between partners. The term is named after the Austrian writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, whose works featured themes of submission and pain.

Synonyms

pain enjoyment, pleasure in suffering, self-destructive behavior.

Examples of usage

  • His masochism surfaced during their intimate moments.
  • They explored masochism as part of their sexual relationship.
  • Masochism can be a complex topic in psychology.
  • Many books discuss the nuances of masochism.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'masochism' comes from the name of Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, a 19th-century author who wrote about pleasure from pain.
  • Coined by psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebing in 1886, it described the sexual satisfaction derived from pain or humiliation.
  • The word has associations with literature and the exploration of complex relationships in fiction, impacting how people understand desire.

Psychology

  • It is often studied in psychology as part of understanding human sexuality and relationships.
  • Some studies suggest that consensual experiences can lead to positive emotional outcomes, including trust and intimacy.
  • Experts differentiate between masochism as a kink and non-consensual behaviors, emphasizing the importance of consent in such activities.

Pop Culture

  • Numerous films and books explore themes of masochism, such as 'Fifty Shades of Grey,' which popularized BDSM culture.
  • Music and art often depict masochistic themes, creating a lasting impact in contemporary culture.
  • Celebrities have openly discussed their preferences, encouraging dialogue about sexuality and personal boundaries.

Historically Significant Cases

  • Masochism has been recorded throughout history in various cultures, often tied to rituals and rites of passage.
  • Historical figures, including some ancient philosophers, pondered the relationship between pain, pleasure, and enlightenment.
  • Literary characters, from ancient myth to modern narratives, have represented masochistic tendencies, reflecting societal views on pain.

Sociocultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures perceive pain and pleasure uniquely, affecting how masochism is experienced and understood.
  • In many societies, discussions around masochism challenge conventional narratives of sexuality and power dynamics.
  • Community events focused on BDSM explore the balance of power and the importance of consent, fostering understanding in a safe environment.

Translations

Translations of the word "masochism" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น masoquismo

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคฎเคพเคธเฅ‹เคšเคฟเคœเคผเฅเคฎ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Masochismus

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ masokisme

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะผะฐะทะพั…ั–ะทะผ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ masochizm

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ใƒžใ‚พใƒ’ใ‚บใƒ 

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท masochisme

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ masoquismo

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท mazohizm

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ๋งˆ์กฐํžˆ์ฆ˜

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุงู„ู…ูŽุงุฒููˆุฎููŠูŽู‘ุฉ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mazochismus

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ mazochizmus

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅ—่™็™–

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ mazohizem

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ masรณkismi

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะผะฐะทะพั…ะธะทะผ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒแƒ–แƒแƒฎแƒ˜แƒ–แƒ›แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ mazoxizm

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ masoquismo

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,061, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.