Definition

Aesthetic refers to a set of principles or characteristics that are concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty, especially in art and design.

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of Speech

Adjective or noun.

Synonyms

Artistic, pleasing, beautiful, elegant, tasteful.

Antonyms

Ugly, unattractive, displeasing.

Word Forms

Part of Speech Words
Noun aestheticians, aesthetician, aesthetics, aesthetic
Verb None
Adjective aesthetical, aesthetic
Adverb aesthetically

Example Sentences

  • The aesthetic of the room was minimalist and modern, with clean lines and neutral colors.

  • She was drawn to the aesthetic of vintage clothing, appreciating the intricate details and unique style.

  • The artist’s work focused on exploring the intersection between form and function, creating an aesthetic that was both visually striking and functional.

  • Walking through the art gallery, she found herself immersed in the captivating aesthetic of the exhibit, as the vibrant colors, intricate brushstrokes, and thought-provoking compositions seamlessly intertwined to evoke a profound emotional response, leaving her in awe of the profound beauty and creativity that human expression can achieve.

Usage

The word aesthetic is commonly used to describe something that is visually pleasing or beautiful, especially in the realm of art, design, and fashion. It can also refer to the appreciation of beauty, as in the phrase “having an aesthetic sense.” As an adjective, it can be used to describe the qualities or characteristics that contribute to a beautiful or pleasing appearance, such as “aesthetic appeal” or “aesthetic quality.” As a noun, it refers to the principles or values that guide a particular style or approach, such as “modernist aesthetic” or “minimalist aesthetic.”

Aesthetic can also be modified with various prefixes and suffixes to create new words. For example, adding the prefix “un-” to aesthetic creates the word “unaesthetic,” which means lacking in beauty or not visually pleasing. Adding the suffix “-ism” to aesthetic creates the word “aestheticism,” which refers to a cultural movement that emphasizes the importance of beauty and artistic expression. Overall, the term aesthetic is an important concept in the world of art and design, representing a fundamental appreciation for beauty and the creative process.