hedonism

The definition of hedonism is the relentless pursuit of pleasure.

(noun)

  1. An example of hedonism is an ethical theory suggesting the pursuit of pleasure should be the ultimate goal.
  2. An example of hedonism is a constant quest for pleasure and satisfaction.

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See hedonism in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

  1. Philos. the ethical doctrine that pleasure, variously conceived of in terms of happiness of the individual or of society, is the principal good and the proper aim of action
  2. Psychol. the theory that a person always acts in such a way as to seek pleasure and avoid pain
  3. the self-indulgent pursuit of pleasure as a way of life

Origin: < Gr hēdonē, pleasure (see hedonic) + -ism

Related Forms:

See hedonism in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. Pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses.
  2. Philosophy The ethical doctrine holding that only what is pleasant or has pleasant consequences is intrinsically good.
  3. Psychology The doctrine holding that behavior is motivated by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of pain.

Origin:

Origin: Greek hēdonē, pleasure; see swād- in Indo-European roots

Origin: + -ism

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Related Forms:

  • heˈdon·ist noun
  • heˌdon·isˈtic adjective
  • heˌdon·isˈti·cal·ly adverb

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