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Definition of sadistic

sadistic

/səˈdɪs.tɪk/
sa · dis · tic
Adverb:sadistically
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sadistic Lexical Profile

sadistic Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Deriving pleasure or gratification from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others.

Example

"The novel's antagonist took a sadistic delight in manipulating the townspeople against one another."

2

Relating to or characterized by clinical or sexual sadism.

Example

"The forensic psychologist examined the suspect's history of sadistic behavior."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for sadistic
Antonyms
View all antonyms for sadistic

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'sadistic' (deriving pleasure from inflicting pain on others) with 'masochistic' (deriving pleasure from experiencing pain or humiliation oneself).

• Rhymes for sadistic

• Nearby Words

sadie
sadism
sadist
sadistic
sadistically
sadly
sadness

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century from 'sadist', named after Donatien Alphonse François, Marquis de Sade (1740–1814), a French aristocrat and writer whose works famously depicted acts of cruelty and sexual violence.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sadistic. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sadistic
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