Nihilist - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A nihilist is someone who rejects all religious and moral principles, believing that life has no inherent meaning or value. This philosophy often leads to skepticism or pessimism.
Definition:
A person who rejects all religious and moral principles, believing life is meaningless.
Synonyms:
skeptic, cynic, pessimist, unbeliever
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
believer, optimist, idealist
Common Collocations:
existential nihilist, moral nihilist, political nihilist
Derivatives:
nihilism, nihilistic
Usage Tips:
Use "nihilist" to describe someone who denies meaning or value in life, often in philosophical contexts.
Common Phrases:
embrace the void, nihilistic worldview, radical nihilism
Etymology:
From Latin "nihil" (nothing) + "-ist," coined in 19th-century Russian philosophy.
Examples:
- 1. The nihilist dismissed all traditions as meaningless.
- 2. Her nihilist views left her indifferent to societal norms.
- 3. He argued like a true nihilist, rejecting every moral claim.
- 4. The novel’s protagonist was a disillusioned nihilist.