aesthetics

Or es·thet·ics

[es-thet-iks, ees-]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of philosophy dealing with such notions as the beautiful, the ugly, the sublime, the comic, etc., as applicable to the fine arts, with a view to establishing the meaning and validity of critical judgments concerning works of art, and the principles underlying or justifying such judgments.

2. the study of the mind and emotions in relation to the sense of beauty.

aesthetics

/ iːsˈθɛtɪks, ɪs- /

noun

1. the branch of philosophy concerned with the study of such concepts as beauty, taste, etc

2. the study of the rules and principles of art

aesthetics

1. The branch of philosophy concerned with the nature of art and with judgments concerning beauty. “What is art?” and “What do we mean when we say something is beautiful?” are two questions often asked by aestheticians.

The term aesthete is sometimes used negatively to describe someone whose pursuit of beauty is excessive or appears phony.

Word History and Origins

Origin of aesthetics¹

First recorded in 1815–25; aesthetic, -ics

Word History and Origins

Origin of aesthetics¹

C18: from Greek aisthētikos perceptible by the senses, from aisthesthai to perceive

Example Sentences

Most recently, the fashion icon released a line of clothing inspired by her lifelong punk aesthetics and androgynous style.

From Los Angeles Times

Some groups call themselves “youth clubs” but share similar ideas and aesthetics and engage in similar activities.

From Salon

Sardines are chic, matcha is both ritual and accessory, and “clean girl” aesthetics coexist with espresso martinis and late-night oysters.

From Salon

Some are inspired by Met Gala themes, Yoruba bridal looks or Afrofuturist aesthetics.

From BBC

It echoes this summer’s blue jeans dispute — Sydney Sweeney’s “good genes” campaign versus Beyoncé’s cowboy couture — and raises the bigger question: who gets to claim the aesthetics of Americana, and who decides who belongs?

From Salon