- Today's Word
Hedonist
HEE-duh-nist (or HED-uh-nist)
Definition
- (noun) A person who pursues pleasure as the highest goal in life.
Example
As a true hedonist, he spent his days traveling to exotic beaches and indulging in the finest foods.
Fun Fact
Hedonism has roots in ancient Greek philosophy, particularly with thinkers like Epicurus, who believed that the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain were key to a good life. However, modern hedonism often carries a more indulgent or carefree connotation, sometimes associated with extravagance. Interestingly, psychological studies suggest that true happiness comes not from constant pleasure but from a balance of meaningful experiences and enjoyment!
(noun) The range of one’s knowledge, understanding, or awareness.
Quantum physics lies far beyond my ken, no matter how many articles I read.
Ken comes from Old English cennan, meaning “to know” or “to make known,” and is closely related to Middle English and Scots usage where it meant knowledge, perception, or recognition. Over time, the word narrowed to describe the limits of what someone knows or understands, which is why it’s often used today in phrases like “beyond my ken.”