Aesthetic: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：relating to beauty (aesthetic)

aesthetic 🔊

/ɛsˈθɛtɪk/

adj.

It describes something that is related to beauty or to the way we see and enjoy beautiful things.

Aesthetic concept illustrated by a hand appreciating a ceramic vase's beauty and texture in warm light.

relating to beauty 🔊

➕

/rɪˈleɪtɪŋ tu ˈbjuːti/

adj.

Pertaining to the appreciation of beauty or artistic qualities.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'aisthētikos', meaning 'perceptive', relating to perception and beauty.

💡 Mnemonic

A E S T H E T I C: Art Elevates Senses Through Harmony, Elegance, Taste, and Creativity.

📖 Example

The designer focused on the aesthetic appeal of the new park, choosing plants and walkways that were both beautiful and calming. 🔊 The designer prioritized the beautiful appearance of the new park, selecting plants and paths that were visually pleasing and soothing.

🔗 Collocations

aesthetic appeal – the attractiveness or beauty of something

aesthetic value – the worth based on beauty or artistic merit

visual aesthetic – the overall pleasing look or style

🔄 Synonyms

artistic (adj.) – relating to art or creative expression

beautiful (adj.) – pleasing the senses or mind aesthetically

pleasing (adj.) – giving a sense of satisfaction or enjoyment

🚫 Antonyms

ugly (adj.) – unpleasant or unattractive in appearance

unattractive (adj.) – not pleasing to look at

🌱 Derivatives

aesthetics (n.) – the philosophical study of beauty and taste

aesthetically (adv.) – in a way related to beauty or aesthetics

📖 Cultural Story

Coined in the 18th century by German philosopher Alexander Baumgarten, who defined 'aesthetics' as the study of beauty and taste, derived from Greek roots for perception.