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Psychedelic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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psychedelic

[หŒsaษช.kษ™หˆdel.ษชk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

art

Relating to or denoting drugs that produce hallucinations and apparent expansion of consciousness.

Synonyms

hallucinogenic, mind-bending, trippy.

Examples of usage

  • He created a psychedelic artwork that mesmerized the audience.
  • The band's music is known for its psychedelic sound.
Context #2 | Adjective

fashion

Having bright colors, complex patterns, and exaggerated shapes, like the style of clothing worn in the 1960s.

Synonyms

colorful, groovy, vibrant.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a psychedelic dress to the party.
  • The fashion show featured psychedelic designs.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art and Culture

  • The psychedelic art movement of the 1960s featured swirling colors and abstract patterns, inspired by visionary experiences.
  • Musicians in the '60s, like the Grateful Dead and Jimi Hendrix, used psychedelic imagery in their performances and album art.
  • Psychedelia influenced fashion, with bright colors and tie-dye fabrics becoming popular items of expression within the culture.

Science and Psychology

  • Research shows certain substances can alter consciousness, leading to enhanced creativity and new insights.
  • Studies are exploring the use of psychedelics in treating conditions such as PTSD, depression, and addiction.
  • Brain scans of individuals under the influence of psychedelics reveal increased connectivity in areas that process emotions and sensory information.

Historical Significance

  • The use of psychedelic plants has roots in ancient cultures, where they were used for spiritual rituals and healing.
  • In the 1950s and 60s, psychedelics became associated with social movements pushing back against traditional norms.
  • Famous figures like Timothy Leary promoted psychedelics, advocating for their use in expanding human consciousness.

Modern Society

  • Recent trends, such as microdosing, show a growing interest in the benefits of psychedelics among professionals for creativity and focus.
  • Art and festivals celebrating psychedelic culture, like Burning Man, continue to draw large crowds and explore alternative lifestyles.
  • Documentaries and books are raising awareness of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, leading to public discussions and policy changes.

Origin of 'psychedelic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'psychedelic' comes from Greek words meaning 'mind' and 'to make visible,' highlighting its connection to altered perception.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the 1950s as part of counter-culture movements, emphasizing its cultural significance.
  • In early research, psychedelic experiences were related to therapies, suggesting benefits for mental health.

The term 'psychedelic' is derived from the Greek words 'psyche' (mind) and 'deloun' (to manifest), and was originally coined by British psychiatrist Humphry Osmond in the 1950s. It gained popularity in the 1960s during the counterculture movement, associated with the use of psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin. The term later expanded to encompass art, music, and fashion styles characterized by vivid colors, abstract patterns, and a sense of altered consciousness.

See also: psychiatric, psychiatrist.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,995, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.