masochism
|mas-o-chism|
C1
🇺🇸
/ˈmæsəˌkɪzəm/
🇬🇧
/ˈmæsəkɪzəm/
pleasure from pain
Etymology
Etymology Information
'masochism' originates from the name of the Austrian writer 'Leopold von Sacher-Masoch', whose works depicted such tendencies.
Historical Evolution
'Masochism' was coined in the late 19th century, derived from the name 'Sacher-Masoch', and became a term in psychology and common language.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred specifically to sexual gratification from pain, but it has broadened to include non-sexual contexts.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the tendency to derive pleasure, especially sexual gratification, from one's own pain or humiliation.
He had a masochistic streak that made him enjoy challenges.
Synonyms
self-abasementself-punishment
Antonyms
sadism
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/07/08 16:15