ataraxia

[ at-uh-rak-see-uh ]

noun

, Philosophy.

1. a state of freedom from emotional disturbance and anxiety, especially as an ongoing condition of soul-fulfilling attainment; unconditional tranquility:

   I’m not looking to achieve ataraxia—I just want a week away from the daily grind.

ataraxia

/ ˌætəˈræksɪə; ˈætəˌræksɪ /

noun

1. calmness or peace of mind; emotional tranquillity

Other Words From

• at·a·rac·tic [at-, uh, -, rak, -tik], at·a·rax·ic adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ataraxia¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Greek ataraxía “impassiveness, calmness,” equivalent to atarák(tos) “unmoved” ( a- a- ⁶ + tarak-, a stem of tarássein “to disturb” + -tos verbid suffix) + -s(is) -sis + -ia -ia

Word History and Origins

Origin of ataraxia¹

C17: from Greek: serenity, from ataraktos undisturbed, from a-1 ¹+ tarassein to trouble

Example Sentences

When the sage realizes this, he will cease to prefer one course of action to another, and the result will be apathy, "ataraxia."

From Project Gutenberg

The Sceptic in seeking ataraxia in the things of opinion, does not entirely escape from suffering from his sensations.

From Project Gutenberg

Ataraxia came to the Sceptic as success in painting the foam on a horse's mouth came to Apelles the painter.

From Project Gutenberg

The method, however, by which ataraxia or peace of mind could be reached, was peculiar to the Sceptic.

From Project Gutenberg

The aim of Pyrrhonism was ataraxia in those things which pertain to opinion, and moderation in the things which life imposes.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• calm
• calmness
• comfort
• content
• luxury
• relaxation
• satisfaction
• serenity