Misanthropy
/ˌmɪs.ənˈθroʊ.pi/noun
A general dislike, distrust, or disdain for the human species or human nature.
Did you know?The term 'misanthropy' emerged during the Renaissance, a time when disillusionment with humanity surged amid the backdrop of plague and war, reflecting a profound existential crisis.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μισάνθρωπος (misanthrōpos)
“Hating mankind, from 'misein' (to hate) and 'anthrōpos' (human being).”
Early 17th Century
Latin
misanthropia
“The state or quality of hating mankind; adopted into scholarly discourse.”
Late 17th Century
English
misanthropy
“Adoption into English as a philosophical term describing the disdain for human nature.”
19th Century
English
misanthropist
“A person who holds misanthropic views, often depicted as a recluse or hermit.”
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