aphanitism
|a-pha-ni-tism|
/əˈfænɪtɪzəm/
lack of mental imagery
Etymology
'aphanitism' originates from Greek elements, specifically from the negative prefix 'a-' and the root related to 'phantasia' (Greek 'phantasia' meaning 'appearance, imagination'), where 'a-' meant 'not' and 'phantasia' meant 'appearance/imagination'.
'aphanitism' developed as a modern variant formation related to the coinage 'aphantasia' (formed from Greek 'a-' + 'phantasia'). 'Aphantasia' was popularized in English-language clinical reports in the 2010s, and 'aphanitism' has appeared later in some clinical and popular writings as an alternative term.
Initially used to denote absence of mental imagery (the same core idea as 'aphantasia'); over time its usage has remained similar, though 'aphantasia' is the more commonly used term in scientific literature.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the absence or inability to voluntarily form mental imagery (a synonym or variant term of 'aphantasia' used in some literature).
Researchers sometimes use the term aphanitism to describe people who cannot voluntarily create mental images.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/15 22:26