algophilia

noun

Meaning

A psychological condition or personality trait characterized by the experience of pleasure or gratification derived from pain.

Examples

  • The psychologist noted that the patient's algophilia was not rooted in trauma but rather in a unique neurological response to sensory input.
  • Literature often explores the dark allure of algophilia, depicting characters who seek out physical suffering to feel more alive.

Synonyms: masochism, pain-seeking, algolagnia