Definition

Proper noun A French aristocrat, revolutionary, politician, philosopher, and writer, famous for his libertine sexuality and his literary works that describe graphic scenes of violence, sexual acts, and philosophical justifications for extreme personal freedom. His name is the origin of the term "sadism."

Examples of Usage

• The writings of Comte Donatien Alphonse Francois de Sade were controversial and often banned.
• Comte Donatien Alphonse Francois de Sade spent many years imprisoned for his writings and behavior.
• Scholars study the philosophy of Comte Donatien Alphonse Francois de Sade in the context of the Enlightenment.

Advanced Usage

• The Marquis de Sade: This is the more common and recognized title used to refer to him. While "Comte" (Count) is technically part of his full name, he is historically and popularly known as the Marquis de Sade.
  • The novels of the Marquis de Sade explore the limits of human desire and authority.

Variants and Related Words

• Sadean (adj): Relating to or characteristic of the Marquis de Sade or his writings, often implying themes of sexual violence, cruelty, or extreme individualism.
  • The film had a Sadean obsession with the connection between pain and pleasure.
• Sadism (n): The tendency to derive pleasure, especially sexual gratification, from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others. This psychological term originates from his name and the behaviors depicted in his works.
• Sadist (n): A person who derives pleasure from inflicting pain or humiliation on others.

Synonyms

• The Marquis de Sade (This is the primary synonym and the most common way to refer to him.)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Sadistic pleasure: Pleasure derived from being cruel. This common phrase directly stems from his legacy.
  • The bully took sadistic pleasure in tormenting the smaller children.

Noun

1. French soldier and writer whose descriptions of sexual perversion gave rise to the term `sadism' (1740-1814)