Main Entry: sa·dism

Pronunciation: \ˈsā-ˌdi-zəm, ˈsa-\

Function: noun

Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary, from Marquis de Sade

Date: 1888

1 : a sexual perversion in which gratification is obtained by the infliction of physical or mental pain on others (as on a love object) — compare masochism
2 a : delight in cruelty b : excessive cruelty

— sa·dist \ˈsā-dist, ˈsa-\ noun

— sa·dis·tic \sə-ˈdis-tik also sā- or sa-\ adjective

— sa·dis·ti·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb