sadism
Sadism (noun) means the tendency to take pleasure in causing pain, suffering, or humiliation to others. Example: “The villain's sadism made him one of the most disturbing characters in the film.”
How to use sadism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishGetting enjoyment from hurting or humiliating others.
Don't confuse with "masochism," which is enjoyment from receiving pain, not inflicting it.
Word forms
sadisms plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The villain's _____ made him one of the most disturbing characters in the film.
Etymology
Named after the Marquis de Sade, an 18th-century French writer notorious for depicting cruelty and violence in his work; the term was coined in French in the 19th century and later popularized by psychiatrist Richard von Krafft-Ebing.
Frequently asked questions
What does “sadism” mean?
The word “sadism” means the tendency to take pleasure in causing pain, suffering, or humiliation to others. In plain terms, getting enjoyment from hurting or humiliating others.
How do you pronounce “sadism”?
“Sadism” is pronounced SAY-dih-zuhm (/ˈseɪdɪzəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “sadism” in a sentence?
Here is “sadism” used in a sentence: “The villain's sadism made him one of the most disturbing characters in the film.”
What part of speech is “sadism”?
“Sadism” is a noun.
Where does the word “sadism” come from?
The word “sadism” dates back to around 1700 and comes from French.