Hedonism
/ˈhɛd.ə.nɪ.zəm/noun
The pursuit of pleasure as the highest good in life.
Did you know?The term 'hedonism' is derived from the Greek word 'hēdonē', which not only means pleasure but was also associated with the divine experience of ecstasy in ancient rituals.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἡδονή (hēdonē)
“Pleasure, delight, often linked to physical and spiritual enjoyment.”
1st Century
Latin
hedonismus
“Adoption of the Greek concept into Latin, emphasizing pleasure as a philosophical principle.”
19th Century
English
hedonism
“Emergence of the term in English philosophical discourse, signifying the doctrine that pleasure is the highest good.”
Modern English
English
hedonism
“Common use in contemporary discussions of ethics and lifestyle, often contrasted with asceticism.”