noun

hedonism

HEE-duh-niz-uhm

Hedonism (noun) means the pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment as the main aim of life, often with little regard for restraint or consequences. Example: “The resort sold a weekend of pure hedonism: no clocks, no plans, no rules.”

noun

The pursuit of pleasure and enjoyment as the main aim of life, often with little regard for restraint or consequences.

"The resort sold a weekend of pure hedonism: no clocks, no plans, no rules."

"Critics accused the band of drifting from protest into hedonism."

formal In philosophy, the doctrine that pleasure is the highest good and that actions are right in so far as they produce it.

"Utilitarian thinkers built on a form of hedonism in which the greatest pleasure for the greatest number defines the good."

How to Use Hedonism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLiving for pleasure and enjoyment above everything else.

When to use it

Neutral in philosophy, but usually mildly disapproving in everyday use.

Memory tip

The person is a hedonist and the adjective is hedonistic; hedonism itself is only ever a noun.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

epicureanism narcissism → decadence →

Common pairings

pure hedonism a life of hedonism hedonism and excess unapologetic hedonism

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The resort sold a weekend of pure _____: no clocks, no plans, no rules.

Etymology

From Greek hēdonē, meaning 'pleasure', with the suffix -ism.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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self-indulgence pleasure-seeking sensualism epicureanism indulgence utilitarianism

Antonyms

asceticism abstinence self-denial

Related Words

vice luxury austerity fasting folly abstinence indulgence utilitarianism

Rhymes for hedonism

antagonism impressionism

See all rhymes for hedonism →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hedonism and epicureanism?

Hedonism in its popular sense means chasing pleasure and intense enjoyment. Epicureanism, though technically a kind of hedonism, taught that the greatest pleasure comes from moderation, friendship and freedom from pain rather than indulgence. In practice the two words now point in almost opposite directions.

Is hedonism a negative word?

Usually, yes, in everyday English it carries a note of disapproval, suggesting excess and a lack of responsibility. In philosophical writing it is a neutral technical label for a family of ethical theories.

What is the opposite of hedonism?

Asceticism is the clearest opposite: the deliberate denial of pleasure and comfort, often for spiritual or moral reasons. Stoicism is also frequently contrasted with it, since it values self-control over enjoyment.

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