etymology.today
08.08.2025 | see previous words
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"schadenfreude"
German
> DEFINITION:
The feeling of pleasure or satisfaction when something bad happens to someone else.
> ETYMOLOGY:
Origin: The word 'Schadenfreude' originates from the German language, combining 'Schaden' meaning 'damage' or 'harm', and 'Freude' meaning 'joy'. The term has been used in the German language since the 18th century.
Historical and Cultural Context: Historically, the concept of deriving joy from others' misfortunes has been acknowledged across cultures. However, the Germans were among the first to encapsulate it into a specific term. The word gained popularity in the English-speaking world in the 20th century.
Evolution: While the components of 'Schaden' and 'Freude' have remained unchanged, the word's usage has expanded beyond German-speaking regions. It has no exact equivalent in English, which has helped preserve its unique identity.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'schadenfreude' is used in various languages, often without translation, to describe a universally recognized emotion. It appears frequently in media and literature to highlight human nature's complex emotional responses.
Historical and Cultural Context: Historically, the concept of deriving joy from others' misfortunes has been acknowledged across cultures. However, the Germans were among the first to encapsulate it into a specific term. The word gained popularity in the English-speaking world in the 20th century.
Evolution: While the components of 'Schaden' and 'Freude' have remained unchanged, the word's usage has expanded beyond German-speaking regions. It has no exact equivalent in English, which has helped preserve its unique identity.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'schadenfreude' is used in various languages, often without translation, to describe a universally recognized emotion. It appears frequently in media and literature to highlight human nature's complex emotional responses.
> FUN_FACT:
Despite being a German term, 'schadenfreude' is often used in English conversations without translation due to its precise description of a complex emotion.
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