masochist
Masochist (noun) means a person who takes pleasure in their own pain, humiliation, or suffering. Example: “Only a masochist would volunteer for that shift twice in a row.”
How to use masochist
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who enjoys or tolerates pain or unpleasantness, literally or as a figure of speech.
Often used loosely and humorously, e.g. "you'd have to be a masochist to enjoy this job," without any clinical meaning intended.
Word forms
masochists plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Only a _____ would volunteer for that shift twice in a row.
Etymology
Named after the author Leopold von Sacher-Masoch; the term was coined by Richard von Krafft-Ebing and later popularized through Freud's writing.
Frequently asked questions
What does “masochist” mean?
The word “masochist” means a person who takes pleasure in their own pain, humiliation, or suffering. In plain terms, someone who enjoys or tolerates pain or unpleasantness, literally or as a figure of speech.
How do you pronounce “masochist”?
“Masochist” is pronounced MA-suh-kihst (/ˈmæ.səˌkɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “masochist” in a sentence?
Here is “masochist” used in a sentence: “Only a masochist would volunteer for that shift twice in a row.”
What part of speech is “masochist”?
“Masochist” is a noun.