Meaning & Definition of word "Masochist"

Masochist

/ˈmæsəˌkɪst/

noun:

  • 1. A person who derives pleasure from their own pain or humiliation, often in a sexual context.
    • Example: He admitted to being a masochist, reveling in the pain of his rigorous workout routine.
  • 2. A person who takes pleasure in the suffering or discomfort of others, often accepting punishment or hardship willingly.
    • Example: Some might see her as a masochist for staying in a toxic relationship despite the emotional toll it took on her.
  • 3. In psychology, it refers to a person who seeks out pain or discomfort as a form of gratification.
    • Example: Therapists often need to work carefully with a masochist to ensure they understand the underlying issues.

Etymology

Derived from Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, an Austrian novelist known for his writing about erotic pleasure in pain.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pleasure in pain:

The enjoyment or satisfaction derived from experiencing pain.

pain as a pleasure:

The concept of finding pleasure in what typically is perceived as painful.

Related Words

sadist:

A person who derives pleasure from inflicting pain on others.

BDSM:

A variety of erotic practices or roleplaying involving bondage, discipline, dominance and submission, sadism, and masochism.

kink:

A non-conventional sexual taste or fantasy.

Slang Meanings of masochist

Meaning: Suffer for pleasure

Example Sentence: He's a total masochist; he loves to suffer for pleasure.

Meaning: Pain junkie

Example Sentence: After that workout, he's such a pain junkie, it’s like he’s a masochist.