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misanthrope

noun

/ˈmɪz(ə)nθrəʊp/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of misanthrope

A person who dislikes, distrusts, or has a general hatred or contempt for humanity.
"The misanthrope's hatred of humanity led him to live a solitary life."

Detailed meaning of misanthrope

It is often used to describe someone who is cynical, reclusive, or antisocial, and who prefers to be alone rather than in the company of others. When someone is described as a misanthrope, it implies a deep-seated aversion to human interaction or social norms, and can be seen as a negative trait. Misanthrope is also used in literature to describe characters who display a profound hatred for humanity, such as Shakespeare's Timon of Athens or Swift's Gulliver in Gulliver's Travels. Overall, misanthrope is a term used to describe someone who has a deep and abiding contempt or hatred for humanity and human society, and is often associated with a sense of alienation or isolation from the rest of society.

Example sentences containing misanthrope

1. The misanthrope sat alone in the corner, avoiding the crowd at the party.
2. With a scowl on his face, the misanthrope muttered about the state of society.
3. She was known as a misanthrope, always skeptical of people's intentions.
4. The misanthrope's cynicism often alienated those around them.
5. Despite his misanthropic tendencies, he found solace in the company of his dogs.
6. The misanthrope's writings revealed a deep disdain for human behavior.

History and etymology of misanthrope

The noun 'misanthrope' has its roots in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek words 'mīsos,' meaning 'hatred,' and 'anthrōpos,' which translates to 'man' or 'human being.' When combined, they form 'mīsanthrōpos,' which describes a person who harbors a deep-seated aversion or hostility toward humanity. The term 'misanthrope' has been used in various literary and philosophical works throughout history to depict individuals who have a general disdain for human nature and human society. Misanthropes are often characterized by their cynicism, solitude, and a preference for the company of nature or solitude over social interactions.

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Further usage examples of misanthrope

1. People misunderstood her misanthropic outlook as mere shyness.
2. The misanthrope's grumbling about humanity grew louder with each passing year.
3. Surprisingly, the misanthrope volunteered at the local animal shelter to avoid human interaction.
4. His misanthropic nature didn't stop him from advocating for environmental conservation.
5. The misanthrope's secluded cabin in the woods reflected their desire for solitude.
6. She considered herself a misanthrope, finding peace only in the embrace of nature.
7. The misanthrope's biting humor kept even close friends at a distance.
8. The artist's misanthropic art pieces depicted a bleak future for humanity.
9. Despite being a misanthrope, he occasionally offered insightful observations on social dynamics.
10. The misanthrope's online presence was marked by sarcastic commentary on current events.
11. The misanthrope's mask of indifference concealed a longing for genuine connection.
12. His misanthropic views were challenged when a stranger's act of kindness caught him off guard.
13. The misanthrope's gloomy predictions about society often overshadowed their acts of charity.
14. Though labeled a misanthrope, she secretly yearned for a world filled with compassion.