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Dionysian - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Dionysian refers to the wild, emotional, and instinctive aspects of human nature, often linked to chaos and spontaneity. It contrasts with the rational and orderly Apollonian principle.

dionysian

/ˌdaɪəˈnɪziən/ /ˌdaɪəˈnɪziən/

Definition:

Relating to the sensual, spontaneous, and emotional aspects of human nature, often associated with Dionysus.

Synonyms:

ecstatic, uninhibited, wild, frenzied

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

apollonian, restrained, disciplined

Common Collocations:

dionysian frenzy, dionysian revelry, dionysian spirit

Derivatives:

Dionysiac, Dionysianism

Usage Tips:

Use "Dionysian" to describe unrestrained creativity or behavior contrasting with order and rationality.

Common Phrases:

dionysian excess, dionysian celebration, dionysian energy

Etymology:

Derived from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and ecstasy, symbolizing chaos and passion.

Examples:

  • 1. The artist's dionysian style shocked traditional critics.
  • 2. The festival was a dionysian celebration of music and dance.
  • 3. His dionysian outburst disrupted the orderly meeting.
  • 4. The play captured the dionysian spirit of ancient rituals.

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