aesthetic

The word “aesthetic” means relating to beauty, art, or how something looks and feels visually. In plain terms, to do with beauty and visual style — either as a describing word (aesthetic value) or a noun (a particular look/vibe).

“Aesthetic” is pronounced ehs-THEH-tihk (/ɛsˈθɛ.tɪk/ in IPA).

Here is “aesthetic” used in a sentence: “The renovation focused on aesthetic improvements like new tiling and lighting.”

Depending on how it is used, “aesthetic” can be an adjective and a noun.

The word “aesthetic” comes from French. From Greek aisthētikos, "of sense perception," via German Ästhetik or French esthétique — the same root that gives us "anaesthetic" (removing sensation).

“Aesthetic” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.

“Aesthetic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: relating to beauty, art, or how something looks and feels visually.

Aesthetic is an adjective ("aesthetic appeal") and a noun for a particular visual style ("a minimalist aesthetic"). Aesthetics, with the s, is the branch of philosophy that studies beauty and taste, and it is treated as a singular subject.

Both are correct. Aesthetic is the standard spelling in British English and the most common form worldwide, while esthetic is an accepted American variant seen mainly in US medical and dental contexts. Publications generally choose one form and stay consistent.

Artistic describes skill in, or a connection with, making art, while aesthetic relates to beauty and how something looks and feels visually, whether or not art is involved. A well-designed spreadsheet can have aesthetic appeal without being artistic.