Jouissance

/ʒwɪˈsɒ̃s/ noun

Definition

Intense pleasure that goes beyond simple enjoyment to the point of ecstasy; in philosophy, a transgressive, excessive pleasure that borders on pain.

Etymology

From French 'jouissance' (enjoyment/bliss), from 'jouir' (to enjoy). Jacques Lacan made it a key philosophical concept — pleasure so extreme it becomes almost unbearable.

Kelly Says

Pleasure so intense it almost HURTS! Like eating something so delicious you actually moan, or music so beautiful you cry. Lacan said jouissance goes PAST regular pleasure into something wild and overwhelming! 🎆😵

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.