utilitarianist
|u-ti-li-ta-ri-an-ist|
🇺🇸
/ˌjuːtɪlɪˈtɛriənɪst/
🇬🇧
/ˌjuːtɪlɪˈtɪəriənɪst/
advocate of maximizing overall good
Etymology
'utilitarianist' originates from English, specifically formed from the adjective 'utilitarian' plus the agent-forming suffix '-ist' meaning 'one who advocates or practices.' 'utilitarian' itself comes via 'utility' and ultimately from Latin 'utilitas' (from 'utilis' meaning 'useful').
'utilitarianist' developed in the 19th century as a derivative of 'utilitarian' (which arose from 'utility' and Old French 'utilité'), combining the modern English suffix '-ist' to denote an adherent; thus 'utilitarian' -> 'utilitarianist'.
Initially related to the idea of 'usefulness' or 'utility,' the term evolved to denote specifically an advocate of the moral philosophy 'utilitarianism'—someone who measures right and wrong by overall results or happiness.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who advocates or follows utilitarianism; someone who evaluates actions, policies, or principles by their utility (usually the greatest happiness or benefit for the greatest number).
He was criticized as a utilitarianist for prioritizing outcomes over individual rights.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/27 11:01