Definition

Relating to the practice of gaining pleasure from giving or receiving pain, often in a sexual context.

Example

The film explored sadomasochistic themes that challenged traditional views on relationships.

Conversation

I heard that new movie has some sadomasochistic themes.

Really? I didn't know that. How intense is it?

It's pretty wild; the characters explore some deep dynamics.

Sounds intriguing! I might have to check it out.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sadomasochistic → It is formed from 'sado-' (from French 'sadisme', meaning derived from the name of the writer Marquis de Sade, who explored themes of sadism) and 'masochistic' (from 'masochisme', meaning derived from the name of the writer Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, who explored themes of masochism). The term describes a practice involving the enjoyment of both inflicting pain (sadism) and receiving pain (masochism).

Memory Tip

Think of the term 'sado-' relating to the enjoyment of inflicting pain and 'masochistic' relating to the enjoyment of receiving pain — together, they describe a complex interplay of pleasure and pain.

Visually Confused Words