Definition

A person who believes that life is meaningless and rejects all religious and moral principles.

Example

The philosopher was often labeled a nihilist for his views on existence and morality.

Conversation

Have you heard about that guy in our class who calls himself a nihilist?

Yeah, I think it's interesting how he views everything as meaningless.

Right? I wonder if he really believes that or if he's just trying to be edgy.

It could be both, but it definitely makes for some deep conversations!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nihilist → It is formed from "nihil" (from Latin, meaning nothing) and the suffix "-ist" (meaning one who practices or advocates). A nihilist is someone who advocates for the belief that nothing has inherent meaning or value.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nothing' ('nihil') to remember that a nihilist is someone who believes in the absence of meaning or value.

Visually Confused Words