Stoicism

American  

[stoh-uh-siz-uhm] / ˈstoʊ əˌsɪz əm /

noun

1. a systematic philosophy, dating from around 300 b.c., that held the principles of logical thought to reflect a cosmic reason instantiated in nature.

2. (lowercase) conduct conforming to the precepts of the Stoics, as repression of emotion and indifference to pleasure or pain.

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stoicism British  

/ ˈstəʊɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. indifference to pleasure and pain

2. (capital) the philosophy of the Stoics

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Stoicism Cultural  

1. A philosophy that flourished in ancient Greece and Rome. Stoics believed that people should strictly restrain their emotions in order to attain happiness and wisdom; hence, they refused to demonstrate either joy or sorrow.

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Related Words

See patience.

Etymology

Origin of Stoicism

First recorded in 1620–30; Stoic + -ism

Example Sentences

The philosophic movements that emerged soon after Diogenes’ time, Stoicism and Epicureanism, aimed to help adherents overcome the fear of death.

From The Wall Street Journal

The book — which demystifies ancient concepts from Stoicism, Buddhism and Greek philosophy for modern, plugged-in, multitasking audiences — arose that evening, when Robbins says she was “being a complete control freak” and “micromanaging every detail.”

From Los Angeles Times

He urged Bhogal to schedule group video calls to discuss rationalism, Stoicism and effective altruism.

From Los Angeles Times

She gives the following examples: Stoicism over vulnerability, cognition over emotion, autonomy over connectedness, and money over people.

From Salon

Stoicism encourages individuals to scrutinize their beliefs, ensuring they measure up in the eyes of reason and virtue.

From Salon