mas·och·ism
(m
s
-k
z
m)
KEY
NOUN:
- The deriving of sexual gratification, or the tendency to derive sexual gratification, from being physically or emotionally abused.
- The deriving of pleasure, or the tendency to derive pleasure, from being humiliated or mistreated, either by another or by oneself.
- A willingness or tendency to subject oneself to unpleasant or trying experiences.
ETYMOLOGY:
After Leopold von Sacher-
Masoch (1836-1895), Austrian novelist
OTHER FORMS:
masoch·ist
(Noun),
masoch·istic
(Adjective),
masoch·isti·cal·ly
(Adverb)
