- Today's Word
Eudaemonia
Eudaemonia
yoo-dee-MOH-nee-uh
Definition
(noun) A state of human flourishing or well-being; happiness achieved through living virtuously.
Example
According to Aristotle, true eudaemonia comes from fulfilling one’s potential with purpose.
Word Origin
Early 19th century: from Greek eudaimonia, from eu ‘well’ + daimōn ‘spirit’.
Fun Fact
Eudaemonia is central to Aristotelian ethics and ancient Greek philosophy. Unlike modern ideas of happiness as fleeting pleasure, this word refers to a lasting sense of purpose, growth, and fulfillment. It’s about living a good life—not just a fun one. In modern psychology, eudaemonic well-being is contrasted with hedonic well-being, and it’s often linked to meaning, connection, and personal development.