Sadistic
Adjective
Definition: Deriving pleasure from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others; enjoying cruelty.
Synonyms: Cruel, Inhumane, Merciless
Antonyms: Compassionate, Kind, Merciful
- The sadistic boss took pleasure in tormenting his employees.
- The sadistic character in the movie enjoyed causing pain to others.
- "Sadistic" has the word "sad" in it, which reflects the pleasure derived from causing suffering.
Etymology:
The word "sadistic" is derived from the name of the Marquis de Sade, a French aristocrat notorious for his cruel and violent sexual behaviors. The term was coined in the late 19th century and became widely used to describe pleasure derived from inflicting pain.
Historical Usage:The term gained popularity in psychological and social contexts, especially related to the study of deviant behaviors and abnormal psychology.
Related Idioms:
"Enjoy one's sadistic streak"
Explanation:Refers to someone finding pleasure in displaying their cruel tendencies or enjoying their own sadistic nature.
Misconceptions:
"Sadistic" is often confused with "masochistic," which refers to deriving pleasure from being subjected to pain or humiliation rather than inflicting it on others.
Explanation:While sadistic and masochistic behaviors can sometimes be linked, they are distinct terms representing different aspects of deriving pleasure in pain, either inflicted on others or oneself.